India record 3-0 win over Kuwait in AFC U-17 Asian Cup Qualifiers

The first big chance came in the ninth minute as Thanglalsoun Gangte headed the ball into the net from a corner-kick opportunity

Thanglalsoun Gangte scored a brace to guide India to a crucial 3-0 win over Kuwait in the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2023 Qualifiers here on Thursday.

India had registered a commanding 5-0 win against the Maldives in their previous match.

Two goals from Gangte gave the Indian side three points.

Goalkeeper Sahil also shone through with a notable display, making a number of crucial saves, ensuring a hard-earned clean sheet.

The first half began with the Indian side in the ascendancy right from kick-off. The first big chance came in the ninth minute as Gangte headed the ball into the net from a corner-kick opportunity. However, the referee had blown for a foul in the build-up.

Three minutes later, skipper Vanlalpeka Guite stung the palms of the Kuwait custodian with a low, fizzing shot that was saved. The pressure continued to build and the reward came in the 16th minute as Bibiano Fernandes’ side took the lead.

A delicious long ball from centreback Manjot Singh Dhami found Korou in space down the right flank. The winger charged and played a pinpoint cross for the onrushing Gangte, who provided a clinical first-time finish.