Team India lose in penalties against Iraq after match ends 2-2

The Indian men’s football team took on Iraq in the King’s Cup 2023 semifinal clash on September 6. Notably, the Blue Tigers suffered a close loss as Iraq defeated India 5-4 in a penalty shootout to qualify for the finals. Moreover, the Blues had a stellar year as they emerged victorious in the Tri-Nation International Friendly Football Tournament, the Intercontinental Cup, and the SAFF Championship.

Speaking about the teams, Iraq, India, Lebanon, and Thailand were competing in a total of four matches at the 49th King’s Cup, which is currently staged by Thailand. India participated for the fourth time. In addition, they last competed in 2019, finishing third. It’s undeniable that Iraq, which currently occupies the 68th spot in the FIFA rankings, is an obvious favorite to capture the gold medal in the ongoing tournament. Meanwhile, Lebanon, who is ranked 100th, is also producing some magnificent performances from past seasons.

Iraq has single-handedly defeated India in all six encounters

Speaking about previous head-to-head encounters, India has encountered Iran six times; however, India has never managed to win, while only managing two goals in the six encounters so far.

Meanwhile, Team India fought hard but couldn’t cross the finishing line, whereas Iraq will face the winner of the second semi-final match that is set to take place between Thailand and Lebanon. Notably, after the loss, Team India will face the losing team from the second semi-final to claim the third spot.

India Squad for King’s Cup 2023:

Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Gurmeet Singh

Defenders: Asish Rai, Nikhil Poojary, Sandesh Jhingan, Anwar Ali, Mehtab Singh, Lalchungnunga, Akash Mishra

Midfielders: Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Suresh Singh Wang jam, Brandon Fernandes, Sahal Abdul Samad, Anirudh Thapa, Rohit Kumar, Ashique Kuruniyan, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Lallianzuala Chhangte

Forwards: Manvir Singh, Rahim Ali, Rahul KP