Rahul Giri
India were held to a goalless draw by Afghanistan in their final group-stage encounter of the CAFA Nations Cup, leaving their qualification hopes hanging on the result of the Iran vs Tajikistan clash later in the night. Should Tajikistan manage an upset, India’s chances of progressing as the second-placed team could be dashed.
Afghanistan, coached by Alberto Annese — who spent three years in India guiding Gokulam Kerala to two I-League titles and also had a stint with NorthEast United — had clearly done their homework. His side managed to frustrate India for large parts of the game, neutralising the attacking threat with disciplined defending.
In defence, India reshuffled in the absence of Sandesh Jhingan. Rahul Bheke was pushed into the centre-back role, while Valpuia was slotted in as right-back.
India’s best chance in the opening half came in the 16th minute when Ashique Kuruniyan surged down the left flank, collecting a long ball from Nikhil Prabhu. His cutback found Irfan Edwad inside the box, but the forward failed to get a clean connection. India’s high pressing strategy created a few nervy moments for the Afghan defence, though their goalkeeper was alert to sweep danger away. At the other end, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu was called into action, pulling off a fine save to deny Ali Reza Panahi’s long-range effort.
At the stroke of half-time, Jithin had a golden opportunity after latching onto a rebound, but his left-footed attempt flew inches over the crossbar.
Both Ashique and Irfan, already on yellow cards, were substituted at half-time, with Vikram Partap Singh and Manvir Singh Jr introduced. However, the second half turned cagey, with India struggling to find creativity in midfield. Afghanistan’s physical centre-backs dominated aerial duels, and the Indian forwards were unable to capitalise on long throws from Mohammed Uvais and Bheke.
The scare of the night came in the 70th minute when Hossein Zamani picked out Yema Sherzad inside the box from a short corner. Sherzad’s effort deflected off Gurpreet’s glove and rattled the crossbar, much to India’s relief.
Coach Khalid Jamil responded by bringing on Danish Faruque, Lallianzuala Chhangte and Udanta Singh in search of late inspiration. But despite fresh legs, India could not break down Afghanistan’s resilient defence.
Afghanistan are ranked 161st in the world. India are 133. After the emphatic opening win against Tajikistan, this draw came as a setback for India, who were unable to sustain their momentum. Now, their fate rests not in their own hands but on the outcome of Iran’s clash against Tajikistan.
Follow Revsportz for latest sports news