Dammam: India fought against strong Saudi Arabia in the qualifying round for the U-17 Asian Cup. In the match held at Amir Mohammad Bin Fahd Stadium in Dammam, India fought hard until the last minute and surrendered with two goals to one.
Both teams won a hat-trick and started a great battle to thrill the spectators. At the start of the match, both teams had many chances but only goals were not scored. In the 21st minute of play, Saudi player number nine Talal Haji scored the first goal as he took advantage of the confusion in the Indian defensive line with a brilliant shot.
Indian attempts to fight back were often useless in the face of the Saudi defense. India had a great chance in the 41st minute but failed to turn it into a goal. In the 57th minute, Saudi Arabia increased their lead with a penalty. Talal Haji took football.
India tried hard to fight back, but without success. The Indian team constantly challenged the Saudi post. In the 86th minute, Indian striker Tanglal Saun Gangte scored India’s consolation goal. In the gallery there were shouts of “India, India”. India won against Myanmar, Kuwait and the Maldives.
Spectators at the stadium Photo: Mujeeb Kalam
Along with Saudi Arabia, India also qualified for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup. Football fans praised the Indian team’s performance without testing the substitutes during the match. He also highlighted the Indian team’s excellent sportsmanship in adverse weather conditions. Families from the Indian diaspora in Dammam were able to watch the match as women could enter the stadium. Many have come to play with their families.
The Indian players left the stadium under the leadership of captain Vanlalpeka Gait and greeted the Indian diaspora who had given great support from the start of the match. The Indians occupied the stadium a few hours before the game started. The authorities had a hard time controlling the crowd.
Soccer-loving Saudi expats left the stadium sharing the joy of watching the Indian team’s excellent match.
