India Target Maldives Win To Seal SAFF Semifinal Spot
Defending champions India will take on Maldives in their final Group B match of the SAFF Championship in Dhaka on Wednesday, knowing that a draw will be enough to secure a place in the semifinals.
India opened their campaign with a 3-2 victory over Pakistan on November 5, with Suhail Bhatt scoring twice in the first half. A point against Maldives would also ensure that the nine-time champions finish top of their group.
India Have Qualification In Their Hands
India are competing with a second-string squad as the first-choice team is scheduled to play two away international friendlies against New Zealand later this week. The side in Dhaka is being coached by Under-23 team head coach Naushad Moosa.
Even a 0-1 defeat to Maldives could be enough for India to progress, given their current goal difference of plus one compared to Maldives’ minus three. However, a heavy loss could put their semifinal hopes in danger.
Pakistan strengthened its position with a 3-0 victory over Maldives on Sunday, finishing its group campaign with three points and a goal difference of plus two.
If teams finish level on points, the tournament rules give priority to head-to-head records, followed by goal difference and goals scored in matches between the teams concerned.
Moosa Wants Improvement After Pakistan Win
Despite the opening victory, Moosa believes India need to improve their coordination, defensive organisation and decision-making.
“We want to improve our coordination, especially in transitions, defensive organisation and decision-making in key moments. Most importantly, we want to build further chemistry and competition within the group,” he said.
India were leading Pakistan 3-0 until the 90th minute but conceded twice in stoppage time, allowing their opponents back into the contest.
Reflecting on the late lapse, Moosa stressed the importance of maintaining concentration and discipline throughout the match.
“The last few minutes were not what we expected. Conceding two goals in added time is something we need to look at and learn from.
“At this level, concentration, game management and maintaining our discipline are extremely important until the final whistle,” he added.
India will look to address those concerns against Maldives and secure qualification with a strong performance.
