KOLKATA: The only way to describe this is a drama at its craziest best. Until 85 minutes, Igor Stimac’s India huffed and puffed on Saturday; they were all possession but little penetration. Against Afghanistan’s strong physical challenge, India’s ambitions looked to be hitting cul-desacs on one occasion too many.
The contest — which appeared to be heading towards another stalemate between India and Afghanistan — suddenly came alive with all its beauty and brutality. Sunil Chhetri conjured a magical moment, brilliantly curling a free-kick around the wall and beating Afghanistan goalkeeper Faisal Hamidi all ends up to hand the hosts a 1-0 lead.
