India vs Kuwait: The SAFF Championship 2023 Final will feature a rematch between the Indian Football Team and Kuwait, evoking the ghost of unfinished business. Following their thrilling tie in the group rounds, anticipation is high for the apex game as Sunil Chhetri & co look to defend their title.
As the SAFF Championship final unfolds, all eyes will be on Sunil Chhetri and his exceptional scoring form. Kuwait’s captain, Khaled Ebrahim Hajiah, aims to contain him, India’s midfield, led by Anirudh Thapa, must maintain control and resist the intense pressure from Mahdi Dashti. Additionally, the battle on the left flank between Al-Faneeni and either Akash Mishra or Subhasish Bose will greatly impact the flow of the game. Ultimately, the outcome will be determined by how these key players perform in their respective roles, shaping the destiny of the SAFF Championship title.
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Sunil Chhetri, the 39-year-old Bengaluru FC player and captain of the Indian national team, continues to impress in the current SAFF Championship. Having scored in every group stage game, Chhetri poses a significant threat to the West Asian team. His remarkable scoring ability makes him India’s best chance at securing victory and claiming the championship trophy. With five goals to his name, Chhetri has now set a record for the highest number of goals scored in the 2023 SAFF Championship.
The toughest task of the night falls on the shoulders of Kuwait’s captain, Khaled Ebrahim Hajiah, who must prevent Sunil Chhetri from finding the back of the net. Hajiah’s main responsibility is to flawlessly coordinate the defense and closely mark the Indian captain, who has a knack for creating scoring opportunities even in the most unlikely circumstances.
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India must assert their dominance in the midfield and guard against being overpowered by the physically strong Kuwaiti team. Throughout history, India has often faced opponents who possess superior physicality. The outcome of the game is frequently determined by the midfield struggle, which influences ball possession and the overall game development. Anirudh Thapa, an exceptional player from India, possesses an impressive work ethic, vision, and the ability to create scoring opportunities for the forwards. However, he will face a stern challenge from Mahdi Dashti, who possesses an intense style of play.
Despite playing primarily as a center-back, Mahdi Dashti, an experienced midfielder for Kuwait, is expected to exhibit versatility by playing in the midfield. He will need to execute quick passes, assert his physical dominance, and provide support in the attack. Adapting to this relatively unfamiliar role, Dashti must maintain composure and stay vigilant throughout the game.
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The battle between Mobarak Al-Faneeni and Akash Mishra, or potentially Subhasish Bose, if he replaces Mishra, on the left flank, will be fierce. Mishra, who impressed as a substitute in the semifinal against Lebanon, might earn a starting spot in the championship game. Regardless of the chosen player, they must be cautious to prevent Al-Faneeni from disrupting India’s gameplay.
The dynamic winger is currently Kuwait’s leading goal scorer in the campaign, having netted two goals. With his agility, he can deliver accurate crosses into the box. The Indian defenders must be wary of affording him too much time and space, as he possesses the capability to create trouble.
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