Top five goals by Indian football team in 2023

The Indian football team delivered some outstanding goals in 2023 and selecting the best was pretty difficult!

The Indian football team, since its’s inception in 1924 has emerged as a beacon of aspiration and determination for countless numbers of football supporters around the country. With a storied history and an unwavering passion for the beautiful game, the Blue Tigers continue to carve a formidable niche on the global stage. The Indian football team hasn’t made it to the World Cup yet, but over the years, they have successfully navigated the difficult international football scene.

In this article, we will take a nostalgic trip down memory lane to relive the top five goals that have etched themselves into the annals of the nation’s footballing history. From stunning free-kicks to mesmerizing gameplay, these goals showcase the skill, determination, and sheer brilliance of the Indian National Team on the international stage.

5. Sahal Abdul Samad vs Mongolia- 2023 Intercontinental Cup

India glided to a 2-0 victory over Mongolia in their 2023 Intercontinental Cup opener, establishing a confident tone for the competition. Despite scoring twice in the first 15 minutes, the Blue Tigers were unable to earn a wider margin of victory.

Sahal Abdul Samad skillfully struck the net with an angled finish from Anirudh Thapa’s cross in the second minute, which had been partially cleared by Mongolian goalkeeper Enkhtaivan. This early strike set the tone for the next half-hour, with the Indian squad utilizing the flanks efficiently to keep the Mongolian defense on the back foot.

4. Manvir Singh vs Kuwait- 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers

India’s FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup 2027 Joint Qualification Round 2 campaign got off to a strong start at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium in Kuwait City, when they defeated hosts Kuwait 1-0, thanks to a goal from Manvir Singh in the 75th minute.

How did it happen? Lallianzuala Chhangte curled a wonderful cross from the left into the penalty area in the 75th minute after sliding past his defender with swiftness. Manvir attempted a first-time shot, slipping the ball into the net after meeting the cross.

3. Naorem Mahesh Singh vs Iraq- 2023 King’s Cup semi-final

India conceded a late goal after a dubious penalty to lose their first-ever game in 2023 against Iraq, who won the King’s Cup semi-final 5-4 on penalties. India’s amazing unbeaten streak of 12 matches came to an end as a result. The Indian football team put up a commendable display despite being without their captain Sunil Chhetri, who missed the competition due to recent fatherhood. The Blue Tigers took the lead in the game and got the much needed breathing room, thanks to Naorem Mahesh Singh’s goal in the 16th minute.

With an incredible assist from Sahal Abdul Samad, Naorem broke the deadlock and ignited the dreams of the Indian fans. When Naorem deceived goalkeeper Jalal Hasan and slid the ball past him at the near post, it was an incredible moment for the winger as it was his second goal in the national team jersey.

2. Lallianzuala Chhangte’s goal vs Lebanon- 2023 Intercontinental Cup final

India won the Intercontinental Cup by defeating Lebanon 2-0 in the final at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. Sunil Chhetri’s 46th-minute goal broke the deadlock, and Lallianzuala Chhangte’s 66th-minute goal made it 2-0 as India defeated Lebanon for the first time since 1977.

The Blue Tigers’ pivotal player on that day was Chhangte, whose goal in the 66th minute provided team India breathing room and resulted in them to win the 2023 Intercontinental Cup among the four participating teams. Mahesh unleashed a powerful shot from within the Lebanon box, testing the reflexes of goalkeeper Sabeh. While Sabeh managed to make the initial save, he struggled to maintain control of the ball. Seizing the opportunity, Chhangte swiftly pounced on the loose rebound, driving it into the net from close range to secure a crucial goal.

1. Lallianzuala Chhangte’s goal vs Kuwait- 2023 SAFF Championship Final

The Indian football team defeated Kuwait 5-4 in the penalty shootout after both teams were poised 1-1 after 120 minutes. Shabaib Al Khaldi had given Kuwait the lead in the 14th minute, and Lallianzuala Chhangte had equalised in the 39th minute.

Chhangte has always been a show-stopper while donning the national colours, demonstrating why he is among the best attacking midfielders of this generation. His goal against Kuwait came after an Al Dhefeery’s mishandled clearance that gave the ball to Ashique Kuruniyan. Turning, Kuruniyan passed to Sunil Chhetri, who then threaded a pass to Sahal. Sahal delivered a cross and Chhangte tapped it in for the equalizer, helping the Blue Tigers win their ninth SAFF championship.

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