Top five matches of Indian Football Team in 2023

The Indian football team showcased competitiveness against tougher opponents in 2023.

The Indian Football Team has had a remarkable year in 2023, showcasing their prowess on the international stage. With a FIFA ranking of 102, the team delivered an impressive performance, securing victories in key competitions such as the SAFF Championship and the Intercontinental Cup. The year also witnessed Head Coach Igor Stimac’s contract extension till 2026, signalling a continued era of strategic leadership.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the top five matches the Indian football team has played in 2023.

5. SAFF Championship Group Stage: India vs. Pakistan (4–0)

On June 21, 2023, India faced arch-rivals Pakistan in a SAFF Championship Group Stage match at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru. The Indian football team dominated the game, securing a convincing 4–0 win.

The legendary Sunil Chhetri stole the show with a hat-trick (10′, 16′ P, 74′ P), complemented by Udanta Singh’s goal in the 81st minute, sealing India’s dominance in the encounter.

4. 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification / 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualification: India vs. Kuwait (1–0)

In a crucial away match on November 16, 2023, at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, Kuwait, India faced Kuwait in the WCQ R2 / ACQ R2 game.

The solitary goal from Manvir Singh in the 75th minute secured a vital 1–0 victory for India, underlining their determination in the qualification campaign.

3. SAFF Championship Final: India vs. Kuwait (1–1, 5-4 on penalties)

On July 4, 2023, in a thrilling SAFF Championship final against Kuwait at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru, India displayed resilience. After Kuwait took an early lead in the 14th minute, Lallianzuala Chhangte equalized for India in the 36th minute.

The game ended 1–1, and India triumphed 5-4 in the penalty shootout, clinching the SAFF Championship in a comeback that left fans exhilarated.

2. King’s Cup Semi-Final: India vs. Iraq (2–2, 4–5 p)

The Indian football team faced a challenging encounter on September 7, 2023, in the King’s Cup semi-final against Iraq at 700th Anniversary Stadium, Chiang Mai, Thailand. The match ended 2–2 after full time, but Iraq secured victory on penalties (5–4).

India displayed a promising performance against the Iraq side who are ranked 63rd in FIFA Rankings, with Naorem Mahesh Singh scoring a brilliant goal. Despite the loss, the team exhibited resilience and potential.

1. Intercontinental Cup Final: India vs. Lebanon (2–0)

The pinnacle of India’s success in 2023 was the Intercontinental Cup final on June 18, at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, against 107th-ranked Lebanon.

Sunil Chhetri opened the scoring just before half-time (46th minute), and Lallianzuala Chhangte sealed the victory with a second goal. India’s domination throughout the match secured a 2–0 win, adding another trophy to their collection.

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