India vs Kuwait: 3 things Igor Stimac and the team management will have to do to win the SAFF Championship 2023 final

India faced a tough challenge against Lebanon in the semi-finals of the 2023 SAFF Championship. They had to showcase immense determination to secure their spot in the final against Kuwait.

Nothing could separate the two sides until extra time as the game ended 0-0. However, the Blue Tigers, with the help of Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, displayed their mettle when it mattered and secured a 4-2 victory in the penalty shootout.

Igor Stimac’s men previously locked horns with Kuwait in the group stage game of the SAFF Championship. Although the game ended in a 1-1 draw, India pinned their opponents back for large parts of the game.

The Blue Tigers came close to scoring on numerous occasions, especially in the first half.

India also have a notable edge in terms of fan support at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium, as evident throughout the tournament. However, the upcoming match is expected to be closely contested.

On that note, let’s look at the three key aspects that Igor Stimac and the management team must address in order to successfully defend their SAFF Championship title.

#1 Improve in the final third of the pitch

Throughout their impressive 10-match unbeaten run India have exhibited clinical touch in front of goal, with Sunil Chhetri's exceptional form playing a significant role.

Despite netting seven goals in four matches during the SAFF Championship, however, there have been instances where they have been inefficient in converting their scoring opportunities.

The semi-final clash against Lebanon perfectly exemplifies India’s struggles. When Sunil Chhetri has an off day, it significantly impacts the performance of other players in the attacking third of the field.

Although the likes of Lallianzuala Chhangte, Sahal Abdul Samad and Ashique Kuruniyan have been impressive, their effectiveness in the penalty box has been somewhat lacking.

If India are to beat Kuwait, they must focus on improving their finishing and capitalize on the scoring opportunities they create.

#2 Exert control in midfield

India's recent triumphs can be largely attributed to the exceptional performance of their midfield, particularly the contributions of Jeakson Singh and Anirudh Thapa. The two central midfielders drop deep and dictate the play, allowing both the full-backs to advance and attack the flanks.

Although the Blue Tigers have asserted their dominance in midfield against lower-ranked teams, they have faced a tougher time against teams such as Lebanon and Kuwait. India have given away the ball cheaply on numerous occasions, allowing the opponents to hit them on the break.

Needless to say, Stimac and his team must address this aspect. In addition to excelling in duels, India need to establish control in possession to further strengthen their chances.

#3 Maintain their composure

Lastly, it is crucial for the Indian players to maintain their composure, both on and off the field.

During their previous match against Kuwait, head coach Igor Stimac's dismissal seemed to swing the momentum in Kuwait's favor. Moreover, Rahim Ali's loss of temper in the closing moments resulted in a red card too.

Unfortunately for India, these incidents caused the team to lose focus, allowing Kuwait to equalize in stoppage time.

Stimac's men have gained a reputation for their aggressive nature and tendency to engage in heated exchanges, which has cost them on occasion. If the team wishes to successfully defend the SAFF Championship, it is crucial for them to be more composed in the high-stakes match coming up.