India vs Kuwait: SAFF Championship 2023 Final Preview and Prediction

Build up:

India and Kuwait lock horns again in the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Tuesday night. This time the stakes are higher because the SAFF Championship trophy is on the line.  

The last clash between these two teams ended in a disappointing draw for India as Kuwait equalized through an own goal by Anwar Ali in the injury time. The game also saw coach Igor Stimac getting his 2nd red card in this tournament, resulting in him getting suspended for two games. Another reason why this game will be extra crucial for India is the current FIFA ranking. We are ranked 100th in the latest FIFA ranking and it is uncertain whether the Hero Intercontinental Cup Final and remaining fixtures will be counted in the July rankings update. In this case, it becomes important for India to clinch a win within the regular time (90 minutes) to ensure our place in pot 2 for the Asian Qualifiers of FIFA World Cup 2026.

Team news:

Star defender Sandesh Jhingan will be back for the final game after facing a one-game suspension. Although the team would be missing the presence of head coach Igor Stimac on the sidelines. Assistant coach Mahesh Gawli has done a commendable job on the sideline till now and his presence will be needed once again on Tuesday night.

Predicted lineups:

Match info:

Kick-off: 4th July 2023, 7:30 p.m.

Venue: Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru

Where to watch- Fancode , Fancode App, DD Sports

* All tickets have been sold out. You can contact West Block Blues on Twitter for help regarding finding tickets*

Our prediction:

India 1-0 Kuwait (after extra time)

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