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Comeback man Sunil Chhetri's brace powered India to a 2-0 win over Cambodia in the opening clash of Asian Cup qualifying final round. The legendary Chhetri came back into the side after recovering from an injury to score goals in both halfs at Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata on June 8.
Chhetri closes in on Messi
The 37-year-old broke the deadlock in the 13th minute and then extended India's lead in the 59th minute. The two goals also helped him narrow the goal difference between him and Argentine goal-scoring machine Lionel Messi.
The veteran is third on the list of highest goal-scorers (active) in the international arena. Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo is on the top with 117 goals followed by Messi who has 86 goals. Chhetri now has 82 goals from 127 appearances.
Chances missed
India were dealt an early blow with referee showing a yellow card to centre-back Sandesh Jhingan for arguing with him.
While India registered a comfortable win over Cambodia, they missed several chances to score and extend their lead. They had 69 per cent possession but could not find the back of the net. Even Chhetri missed two headers. He was booked for a tackle on Choun Chanchav as well in the 30th minute. India's attack looked fresh with two changes after the first half.
In the other clash, Hong Kong beat Afghanistan by 2-1.
Embarrassment on field
Earlier, the start to the match was delayed due to a technical issue. After India’s national anthem, Cambodians had to wait in the field for 10 minutes for their national anthem.
