Xtra Time Web Desk: A late strike (90+2) from Abdul Sahal Samad helped hosts India win a thriller 2-1 against Afghanistan in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan on Saturday. The win helped the Blue Tigers move a step closer to qualification for the 2023 AFC Asian Cup.
India took the lead in the 85th minute through captain Sunil Chhetri. It was the Sunil’s third goal in the tournament, which also takes him to 83 International goals. The Indian captain took a well-directed free-kick that beat the Afghanistan goalkeeper.
Afghanistan equalised in the 88th minute, as an unmarked Nadiem Amiri put the ball in to pull the visitor’s level. India pressed back immediately as Sahal Samad put the hosts ahead again in the injury time. He scored after receiving a perfect cross from Ashique inside the Afghanistan box.
India strengthened their position at the top of Group D, with 6 points, while Afghanistan have yet to open their account.