Indian national football team beat Macau 4-1 in their AFC Asian Cup qualifying match at Bangalore’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium.
Rowlin Borges, Sunil Chettri and Jeje have ensured that India make their fourth apperance on the AFC Asian Cup finals. But for the hero for India in this match is undoubtedly Balwant Singh.
With over 4,000 fans watching on a rainy day in the Garden City. The hosts made heavy weather of their world No. 182 opponents, who put forth a brave challenge by playing some compact formations.
This is the fourth time that India have made it into the Asian Cup. Earlier played in 1964 (finished runners-up), 1984 (finished last in their group) and 2011 (finished last in the group) editions of the tournament.
India broke the deadlock in a fast counter, catching the Macau defence unawares. Sent through by Jeje, Balwant – who was subbed in at the start of the second half – was off in a flash and Chhetri went up through the other side. With the only the ‘keeper to beat, Balwant unselfishly relayed the ball to Chhetri who fired in past Ho Man Fai in the 60th minute.
In the 70th minute, an own goal from Narzary’s cross gave India 3-1 lead and place went berserk. But Indian strikers didn’t stop in the 92nd minute by scoring from a low cross by Chhetri.
India sit pretty at the top of Group A qualifying round with 12 points from four matches. The Blue Tigers play Myanmar on November 24 and Kyrgyzstan on March 27 next year.