How can India qualify for the SAFF Championship 2021 Finals?


How can India qualify for the SAFF Championship 2021 Finals?

How can India qualify for the SAFF Championship 2021 Finals?

India’s journey in the SAFF Championship 2021 hasn’t been an ideal one. The Blue Tigers started their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Bangladesh. Despite dominating the game for a majority of the time, India had to settle for a draw. Sunil Chhetri provided an early lead in the 26th minute but a 74th-minute strike from Yeasin Arafat leveled it up for the Bangla Tigers.

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Later, they came up against a relatively weaker Sri Lankan side but still, they couldn’t manage to ease past the net. The match ended in a disappointing goalless draw which minimized India’s hopes to secure a spot in the Finals.

However, the seven-time champions bounced back in style and defeated the then-table-toppers Nepal 1-0 courtesy of an 82nd-minute goal from Chhetri. It was a complete performance from the Indian side and they will be confident going into their do-or-die game against the defending champions Maldives.

India now stand at the third position in the points table with five points and are below Nepal and Maldives who have six points each. Coming into their last group stage encounter against the Maldives, let’s take a look at India’s chances to qualify for the finals.

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How can India qualify for the SAFF Championship 2021 Finals?

How can India qualify for the SAFF Championship 2021 Finals?
How can India qualify for the SAFF Championship 2021 Finals?

If India wins against the Maldives: India’s chances to qualify for the finals of the SAFF Championship 2021 are in their own hands now. After their dominating win over Nepal, they have made the table wide open and would qualify for the finals if they beat the defending champions the Maldives. India will reach on eight points which will confirm their spot for the ultimate battle.

If India draws against the Maldives: The Blue Tigers, who currently have five points cannot make it to the finals if they draw against the Maldives. A draw would see them end with six points. Either result of the Bangladesh vs Nepal match would see them finish at the third spot.

SAFF Championship 2021 Points Table

TeamsGPWDLFAGDP
1.Maldives320131+26
2. Nepal320143+16
3. India312021+15
4. Bangladesh311123-14
5. Sri Lanka401325-31
GP: Games Played W:Wins D:Draws L:Losses F: Goals For A: Goals Against

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