Defending champions India began their SAFF Championship title defence with a 3-2 victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening Group B match at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Thursday.
India dominated the first half, scoring three goals to establish a commanding lead. Suhail Ahmad Bhat opened the scoring in the 13th minute before doubling the advantage six minutes later with a fine finish. Manglenthang Kipgen added India’s third goal in the 32nd minute.
Pakistan missed an opportunity to reduce the deficit when Shayak Dost failed to convert a penalty in the 34th minute.
However, Pakistan staged a late fightback, scoring twice in stoppage time through Najeeb Ullah and Alamgir Ali Khan Ghazi in the 90+1st and 90+4th minutes.
India held on to secure all three points and will next face the Maldives on November 11 in Dhaka.
