Matches between India and Pakistan are never short of drama. Whether it’s cricket or football, the rivalry between these two neighbours often extends beyond sports, fuelled by the political tension between the countries.
In the ongoing Asia Cup, India faced Pakistan twice, in the Group Stage and the Super Four, and both matches saw controversies. But the heat wasn’t limited to cricket. A fresh incident unfolded in football as well.
SAFF U17 Championship Drama
During the SAFF U-17 Championship in Colombo, India defeated Pakistan 3-2 in an intense match. Even though both teams had already qualified for the semifinals, the game turned into a highly charged battle.
India scored first in the 31st minute through Dallalmuon Gangte. Pakistan equalised in the 43rd minute after Muhammad Abdullah converted a penalty. What followed caught everyone’s attention. Abdullah and his teammates celebrated in a mocking way by pretending to drink tea in the corner.
The gesture sparked controversy, but in the end, it backfired. India came out stronger, with Danny Singh Wangkhem creating a brilliant move on the flank and setting up Gangte to score again. India eventually sealed a 3-2 victory, keeping their winning run against Pakistan alive.
Interestingly, Abdullah’s celebration came just a day after Pakistani cricketers Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan made provocative gestures during their Asia Cup match against India in Dubai. India had won that cricket clash by six wickets, and now their U17 football team also stamped their authority with a win.
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