Bengaluru: Kuwait showcased their dominance and secured a comfortable 4-0 victory over Pakistan in the Group A match of the Bangabandhu SAFF Championship 2023 at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday. With this win, Kuwait took a significant step towards securing a spot in the semi-finals of the tournament.
Kuwait took charge from the beginning, displaying their determination to take the lead. Their efforts paid off in the 10th minute when Hasan Alanezi capitalized on a long cross from the right flank and skillfully found the back of the net, giving Kuwait an early advantage.
Continuing their dominance, Kuwait maintained control of ball possession and created opportunities. Before the half-hour mark, Eid Alrashid provided a superb assist to Mobarak Alfaneeni, who confidently slotted the ball home, extending Kuwait’s lead to 2-0.
Pakistan tried to make a comeback and came close in the 38th minute, with Harun Hamid delivering an enticing cross into the box. Unfortunately for Pakistan, none of their teammates were able to capitalize on the opportunity.
In the additional time of the first half, Kuwait dealt another blow to Pakistan as Ali Khan Niazi’s casual back pass was intercepted by Alrashidi in a dangerous area. Although Pakistan goalkeeper Yousuf Ijaz Butt managed to block Alrashidi’s fierce attempt, Alfanneni clinically chipped in the rebound, securing his second goal of the match and bringing the score to 3-0 in Kuwait’s favour.
Despite holding a substantial lead, Kuwait continued to press forward, displaying their quality in attack. However, Pakistan’s solid defense prevented them from penetrating further. Pakistan had a chance to pull one back in the 60th minute when substitute Muhammad Waleed Khan stretched for a tap-in, but Kuwait goalkeeper Bader Bin Saanoun made an impressive save to deny the goal.
In the 69th minute, Alrashidi once again showcased his brilliance on the counter-attack, displaying excellent footwork and beating both the nearest Pakistan defender and goalkeeper to find the target, sealing a comprehensive 4-0 victory for Kuwait.
Kuwait will now face hosts India in their final group stage game, while Pakistan will go head-to-head against Nepal on Tuesday. With six points from two matches, Kuwait currently leads Group A and is well-positioned to secure a place in the tournament’s semi-finals.
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