Heartbreak for India U-23 as Qatar U-23 Edge Victory in AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers

The India U-23 men's football team faced a narrow 2-1 defeat against Qatar U-23 in their crucial Group H match of the AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers held at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha on September 6, 2025.

India began the match with clear attacking intent, exemplified by Muhammed Suhail's early long-range effort that narrowly missed the target. However, Qatar took the lead in the 18th minute when Al Hashmi Mohialdin capitalized on a corner kick to head the ball home.

The Indian side, also known as the Blue Colts, responded with determination after the break, leveling the score in the 53rd minute. A well-delivered cross from Mohammed Sanan found Muhammed Suhail, who powered a header into the net, igniting hopes for an upset in front of the home side.

Disaster struck for India in the 66th minute when defender Pramveer, already on a yellow card, was judged to have fouled Noureldin Ibrahim inside the penalty box. The referee awarded a penalty and issued a second yellow card to Pramveer, reducing India to ten men. Jassem Al Sharshani coolly converted the spot-kick to restore Qatar's lead.

Despite being a man down, India fought vigorously, with goalkeeper Sahil making a crucial save in the 80th minute to deny Abdulaziz Hasan. However, Qatar managed to maintain their advantage, ultimately securing the victory.

Following this result, India holds one win and one defeat in the group and must now turn their focus to their final group game against Brunei on September 9. A convincing win in that match will be essential for the Blue Colts to keep their hopes alive of progressing as one of the best second-placed teams across the qualification groups.

The match demonstrated India U-23's growing competitiveness on the Asian stage, but also highlighted the fine margins such as refereeing decisions that can influence the outcome at this level.