Asian Games Football: India to play Saudi Arabia in Round of 16

India earned qualification to Asian Games' knockout stages after 13 years.

It was a tough night for India at the Xiaoshan Sports Center Stadium in Hangzhou as Myanmar gave them a very tough fight in their final group stage match. But despite a hard fought draw against Myanmar, the Indian football team have made it to the RO16 of the 2023 Asian Games.

India will play the second round of men’s football after 13 long years, having last featured in the knockouts in 2010. The Blue Tigers finished second in Group A with four points to their name behind hosts China as they won, drew and lost one each during their group stage fixtures.

India’s performance at the Asian Games so far

Igor Stimac’s side have performed decently so far in the Asian Games. India began their campaign with a demoralising defeat to hosts China. The home side scored first before Rahul KP scored a landmark goal just before half-time only for India to concede four more goals in the second half.

In the second game, India somehow managed to take all three points against their neighbours Bangladesh. Bryce Miranda won a late penalty for India in the 85th minute before Sunil Chhetri guided it home. Although Bangladesh were the better side on the night, India still managed to defeat them.

And in the final group game, India could’ve won against Myanmar but only have themselves to blame. Sunil Chhetri gave India an early lead with a spot-kick in the first half, but his side failed to build upon it and eventually conceded a late equaliser. 

Who will India face in the RO16 of the 2023 Asian Games?

The Blue Tigers will face off against Asian giants Saudi Arabia on September 28 at the Huanglong Sports Centre Stadium, Hangzhou. It will be a tough challenge for Igor Stimac and company.

Saudi Arabia at the 2023 Asian Games

Saudi Arabia have been one of the best teams at the continental championship so far. They were placed in Group B alongside Iran, Vietnam and Mongolia. The green Falcons did really well in the group stages and will be keen to continue their good run.

Their tournament opener ended in a 0-0 draw against Iran before they destroyed Mongolia with a 3-0 victory. And in their final group stage game, they emerged victorious against Vietnam with a 3-1 win.