Overview

• David Laltlansanga put India ahead in the ninth minute after a Lalsangkima through ball, but Kuwait equalised a minute later and led 2-1 at half-time.
• Kuwait pulled away with second-half goals, including strikes from Mohammad Al Ajmi and Al Abasi, to close out the win in Ardiya.
• Head coach Reza Kordi praised his young squad’s progress, called the defeat a learning experience, and highlighted strong goalkeeping on both sides.
• India entered only their second qualifiers with limited preparation after heavy friendly losses in Lebanon and sit 135th in the rankings compared with Kuwait’s 43rd.
• Australia, ranked 53rd, opened with an 8-1 win over Mongolia, and with eight group winners plus seven best runners-up advancing, India must improve to stay in contention.