Six-time champions India beat rivals Pakistan 1-0 in the second match of Group A of the 10th SAFF Championship at the Dasarath Stadium in Kathmandu yesterday. A 14th-minute own goal from Pakistan captain and defender Samar Ishaq made the difference in the game.
Pakistan enjoyed better ball possession and launched more attacks in the opposition backline in the first half, but were unlucky as confusion between two defenders and the goalie made them concede a goal. Defenders Samar, Mohammed Ahmed and goalie Yousaf Ejaz Butt converged to foil a cross from Indian midfielder Francisco Fernandes, but the shot deflected of Samar's legs and went into the net, catching the goalie out of position.
Pakistan were unlucky not to get on level terms as Hasan basher saw his shot hit the far post in the 35th minute. An Ahmed Adil Kalimullah shot in the 44th minute was brilliantly tipped over by Indian goalkeeper Subrata Paul.