The Indian men’s U-23 team fought valiantly but slipped to a narrow 2-1 defeat against hosts Qatar in their second Group H clash of the AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium, Doha, on Saturday. Reduced to ten men just after the hour mark, the Blue Colts displayed grit and determination but were undone by a controversial refereeing decision.
India began positively, showing attacking intent early on. Muhammed Suhail tested the Qatari goal in the third minute with a dipping long-range effort that missed by inches. However, it was Qatar who drew first blood in the 18th minute when Al Hashmi Mohialdin headed home from a corner.
The Blue Colts responded brilliantly after the break. In the 53rd minute, Mohammed Sanan delivered a delightful cross from the left, and Suhail rose highest to power home a header at the near post, bringing India level and sparking hope of an upset.
But disaster struck in the 66th minute. Defender Pramveer, already on a yellow card, was adjudged to have fouled Noureldin Ibrahim inside the box. The referee pointed to the spot, handing Pramveer a second booking and India were reduced to ten men. Jassem Al Sharshani converted the penalty to restore Qatar’s lead.
Despite being a man down, India refused to give in. Goalkeeper Sahil produced a stunning save in the 80th minute to deny Abdulaziz Hasan and keep India alive. But the hosts managed to hold on, leaving India heartbroken.
With one win and one defeat, India will now turn their attention to their final group game against Brunei on September 9. A convincing victory will be crucial if the Blue Colts are to stand a chance of progressing as one of the best second-placed teams across the 11 groups.
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