Sunil Chhetri’s India is set to face Hong Kong in the decisive encounter of the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium on Tuesday.
In the initial match, Chhetri, recovering from an injury, netted two goals against Cambodia, securing a crucial 2-0 victory. The following challenge was against Afghanistan, where for 86 minutes, both teams remained evenly matched. Then, in trademark fashion, Chhetri executed a brilliant free-kick just outside the box, finding the back of Afghanistan’s net. Although India conceded from a corner two minutes later, Sahal Abdul Samad’s late extra-time goal secured the team’s second consecutive win. A win or a draw in the upcoming match ensures India’s qualification for back-to-back Asian Cups, a historic feat for the Indian team.
Qualification Scenarios:
1. Win or Draw: Secures India’s place in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup.
2. Loss: In case of a loss, India must rely on the results of other second-placed teams in different groups. Currently positioned third among six second-placed teams, India advances if they are not the worst among the sixth-placed teams.
Key Matches to Monitor:
1. Philippines vs Palestine: A loss or draw for the Philippines (currently second in their group with 4 points) means India avoids being the worst among the six second-placed teams.
2. Malaysia and Indonesia: If these teams draw or lose their final group game, India qualifies as long as they are not the worst among the remaining second-placed teams.
The stage is set for India to make history in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, with various scenarios determining their fate in the continental championship.