Jobaaj Stories
India Football Triumphs Over Maldives, but Injuries Cloud Future
India's national football team ended a 15-month winless streak with a resounding 3-0 victory over the Maldives in a FIFA International Friendly. The match, held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, saw stellar performances from Rahul Bheke, Liston Colaco (Player of the Match), and the returning Sunil Chhetri, who scored his 95th international goal. This win provides a much-needed boost ahead of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, but a growing injury list casts a shadow over the team's prospects.
A Dominant Display
Bheke and Colaco both scored headers, while Chhetri's header sealed the victory. Chhetri's return after a 286-day absence ignited the Shillong crowd, showcasing his continued skill and importance to the team. Despite sustained Indian pressure, the Maldives defense held firm for a time, with goalkeeper Hussain Shareef making several crucial saves. However, India's superior skill and teamwork ultimately proved decisive.
Injury Concerns
The victory was bittersweet, however, as key midfielder Brandon Fernandes suffered a knee injury, ruling him out of upcoming matches. This adds to the already concerning injury list, which includes Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh, and Ashish Rai. Coach Manolo Márquez expressed concern about the pitch conditions and the increasing number of injuries, indicating that replacements will be called up. This puts a strain on the squad as they prepare for the crucial AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers against Bangladesh.
Looking Ahead
The win against Maldives was a much-needed confidence booster for the Blue Tigers, but the upcoming match against Bangladesh presents a significant challenge. While the victory over the Maldives was impressive, the injury concerns necessitate careful squad management and strategic planning for the upcoming qualifiers. The team's ability to overcome these setbacks will be a true test of its resilience and depth.
