Suhail Ahmad Bhat scores brace as India beat Pakistan 3–2 in SAFF Championship
· Sports · Indian Express, NDTV Sports, Sportstar
India’s second‑string side clinched a 3–2 victory over Pakistan in Dhaka, with Suhail Ahmad Bhat scoring twice in the opening 20 minutes and Manglenthang Kipgen adding a third. Pakistan reduced the deficit late in the match through Najeeb Ullah in the 91st minute and Alamgir Ghazi in the 94th minute. The win keeps India top of Group B ahead of their clash with Maldives on November 11, while Pakistan remain in contention for the semifinals. The Indian team, missing regular first‑team players due to international friendlies and ISL commitments, is coached by Naushad Moosa and will have its full squad of 28 once the FIFA window opens on November 9. The Blue Tigers’ next Group B match is scheduled for November 11 at the National Stadium in Dhaka.
Why it matters
The victory maintains India's playoff hopes in the SAFF Championship and sets up a crucial match against Maldives, while Pakistan's late rally highlights the competitiveness of the arch‑rival encounter. Both nations advance key players to the FIFA window, affecting ISL club schedules and Indian football's international calendar. The result solidifies India's position in Group B and shapes the semifinal race, making the upcoming Maldives game decisive for tournament qualification. The match also
Read the original report — Indian Express
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