Sunil Chhetri's 150th international appearance ends in shocking defeat to Afghanistan in 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

158th-ranked Afghanistan spoiled Sunil Chhetri's milestone 150th match with a 2-1 victory over India in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers at India Gandhi Athletic Stadium on March 26. 
 

Chhetri was the lone goal-scorer for India as he covered from the spot in the 37th minute after Haroon Amiri handled the ball inside the box.
 

Manvir misses but Chhetri strikes in landmark game

In the second round of the joint qualifiers for the World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup 2027, Manvir Singh missed an easy chance to put one at the back of the net after Chhetri's shot hit the crossbar. The deadlock was broken by Chhetri who scored a penalty to beat Afghanistan goalkeeper Ovays Azizi from the spot. Liston Colocao had a chance to double India's lead but he failed to control the ball.
 

Afghanistan score equaliser

In the 68th minute, India coach Igor Stimac made three substitutions and brought Anirudh Thapa, Naorem Mahesh, and Lallianzuala Chhangte in place of Brandon Fernandes, Colaco and Chhetri. But these changes could not Rahmat Akbari equalised in the 71st minute equalised with a shot from outside the box. The ball went through the legs of Rahul Bheke after a deflection to make the scoreline 1-1.
 

Gurpreet’s mistake leads to an embarrassing loss

In the 88th minute, Gurpreet Singh was shown a yellow card. Sharif Mukhammad took the penalty and helped Afghanistan take the lead. India tried to find the equaliser in the stoppage time. 

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Afghanistan keep India at pay

India have now failed to beat Afghanistan in two outings. Earlier, on March 22, the first leg in Abha, Saudi Arabia ended in a goalless draw.
 

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