Football
FIFA World Cup qualifiers: India crash out, Qatar and Kuwait advance to Round 3- Highlights
A huge refereeing error with Qatar's equalizer dampens India's spirit as Qatar went on to grab a later winner, Kuwait score late against Afghanistan and climb to second spot.
With Chhangte's goal, India was on course for an upset victory over Qatar (Photo credit: FANCODE)
The last match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup 2027 Preliminary Joint Qualifiers Round 2 ended in an agonizing defeat for India, who were leading 1-0 for a long time before a highly controversial call from the linesman gave Qatar the equalizer before they got a late winner.
India's dream of playing in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has come to an end as they finish behind Qatar and Kuwait, who won 1-0 against Afghanistan thanks to a late goal.
As it happened:
Live Updates
- 11 Jun 2024 5:04 PM GMT
Update from Afghanistan game!
Afghanistan and Kuwait are currently playing a 0-0 draw. If the result stands, India will easily qualify.
- 11 Jun 2024 5:02 PM GMT
52' What a block from Mehtab!
What a game Mehtab is having! Yet another crucial block denies Qatar a clear chance to score. His defensive heroics are proving vital in keeping India's lead intact.
Mehtab heroically saves the day for India once again! (Photo Credit: FanCode) - 11 Jun 2024 4:58 PM GMT
50' Qatar is again on full attacking mode!
Qatar comes back out with renewed vigor and is continuously attacking. India's defense is under pressure as Qatar pushes hard for an equalizer. The Indian backline and goalkeeper Gurpreet are working tirelessly to keep Qatar at bay.
- 11 Jun 2024 4:52 PM GMT
Second half is underway!
India is leading 1-0 as they are heading into the second half.
- 11 Jun 2024 4:36 PM GMT
End of first half!
It's the end of the first half, and India leads Qatar 1-0, thanks to Lallianzuala Chhangte's goal in the 36th minute. After an early scare with Qatar's aggressive attacks, India has found their footing.
Stay tuned for the second half as India aims to maintain their lead and make history by advancing to the third round.
India go into hafltime with a crucial 1-0 lead against Qatar. (Photo Credit: FanCode) - 11 Jun 2024 4:32 PM GMT
43' Brilliant football from India!
After the initial scare, India has found their footing in the game. The plan to expose the lack of physicality in the Qatar midfield by utilizing Jeakson and Suresh is paying off. India's strategy is starting to take shape as they control the pace and create more opportunities. The lead has given them a boost in confidence as they continue to press forward.
India 1 - 0 Qatar
- 11 Jun 2024 4:28 PM GMT
Indian fans have found their voice!
The Indian fans erupt in unison seeing Chhangte put the ball in the net!
Photo Credit: FanCode - 11 Jun 2024 4:26 PM GMT
36' Goal for India!
Lallianzuala Chhangte takes the lead in the 36th minute. The play starts with a throw-in from Jay Gupta. Brandon receives the ball and delivers a brilliant ground pass to Chhangte, who makes no mistake in converting it into a goal.
India is up 1-0 against Qatar!
Lallianzuala Chhangte celebrating the crucial goal for India against Qatar. (Photo Credit: FanCode)
