India has risen to the top of the table after defeating Vanuatu 1-0 in the 2023 Intercontinental Cup. Vanuatu played a high-energy game and defended admirably until the 80th minute. India captain Sunil Chhetri was the right man at the right time when he discovered the internet and dedicated the goal to his soon-to-be-born child.
Vanuatu’s defence stood tall, especially captain Brian, who was a tank in front of the goal. India’s attacking line performed admirably but was unable to capitalise on the opportunities they created.
Both India and Igor Stimac will be pleased with the outcome of a game marked by numerous missed opportunities. Chhetri came through when it mattered most to secure a victory for his country, which is currently on a four-game winning streak. The Indian Football Team defeats Vanuatu by a narrow margin, putting the Intercontinental Cup 2023 Final within reach.
Chhetri’s brilliance once again saved India’s blushes, but the eighty-odd minutes before it provided plenty of cause for concern for Stimac. His improvised starting attack of Liston, Mahesh, and Nandha worked intermittently, but they all had the problem of rushing into crosses and passes.
Chhetri’s poor performance (until the moment that mattered) and Rohit and Rowllin crowding each other in midfield didn’t help. With Anwar Ali resting, Mehtab and Jhingan were also unable to launch deep attacks. India dominated the ball, but Stimac will want them to stay calm in the final third.
What Chhetri did to score the game-winning goal – touch, swivel, smash – all in one smooth motion as he slowed time, confident that his technical ability would serve him well.
Following the end of the match, he said:
“Me and my wife are expecting and this is the way we wanted to announce it. [He celebrated by tucking the ball into his jersey]. This is the cliched old footballer’s way and I had to do it. I hope we get all the blessings and good wishes.”
That goal puts India atop the table, but they’ll need a more cohesive performance against Lebanon, which is ranked two places higher. They, too, will be looking to rebound from a disappointing goalless draw with Mongolia.
