SAFF Cup 2021: India vs Sri-Lanka Live Blog, Updates, Team news, scores and more
Sunil Chettri leading the Indian national team (Image Source: Indian Football Team Media)
The Indian football team is back in action! The Blue Tigers take on Sri Lanka in the second group match of the SAFF Cup 2021. The team earlier played a 1-1 draw to ten-man Bangladesh and got off to a disappointing start in the tournament.
"We need to look forward. There are three matches left in the group stage. We were punished in the last match, and we need to improve," Head Coach Igor Stimac stated.
A lot of football is still left to be played in the tournament. But on the surface, the five-team format suggests that every match is a must-win for India to ensure a smooth passage to the final. Of course, there will be mathematical calculations as every team moves ahead. Sri Lanka, India's opponents, are, however, yet to win a match – having lost both to Bangladesh and Nepal.
The match kicks off at 4:30 pm IST.
Our coverage for the match begins at 4 pm, keep following this space for the fastest match updates.
Another disappointing performance for India as they share the points with Sri Lanka today. India will be playing Nepal on the 10th of October from 9:30 pm IST.
The referee puts up his flag as Subhasish Bose was in an offside position!
A chance for India but Sahal chips the ball straight into the keepr's hands.
Foul committed by Manvir Singh on Sujan Perera. The incident took place when Subhasish Bose headed a ball towards the goal and while trying to reach it Manvir fouled the keeper, who had already collected the ball!
Manvir Singh handled the ball while receiving it in front of the Sri Lankan penalty box!
Sunil Chhetri's header from the corner fell to Subhasish Bose, who couldn't capitalize on the situation!
Sahal's cross was pushed in by Sunil Chhetri towards his fellow teammate but Sri Lankan defence gets rid of it for a corner!