The Indian football team is gearing up for a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier against Kuwait. Coach Igor Stimac has called this match a "huge game" that could define the careers of his players. India will face Kuwait at the Salt Lake Stadium on June 6. They will then play an away game against Qatar on June 11.
India had a surprising loss to Afghanistan in March, but they still have a chance to advance to the third round of qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. A loss on June 6 would be a significant setback for Indian football, especially in the eyes of fans and the AIFF.
Kuwait, known for being unpredictable, will aim to derail India's hopes of advancing. India needs to defeat Kuwait to keep their World Cup dreams alive. Despite past struggles, India did beat today's opponents in their opening clash for the qualifiers.
Sunil Chhetri's retirement adds emotional weight to this game. The team wants to honor him with a win. Kuwait, at the bottom of the group standings, has shown resilience, especially with a big win over Afghanistan. They are determined to improve their position and stay in the race for qualification.
The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch it in India, kickoff times, and the latest lineup news.
What time does India vs. Kuwait kick off?
This FIFA World Cup qualifier second-round match takes place at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, India and kicks off on Monday, June 6 at 7:00 p.m. IST.
India vs. Kuwait live stream, TV channel
The crucial match between India and Kuwait on June 6 will be shown on the Sports18 network (Sports18 1, Sports18 1 HD, Sports18 3). You can also stream the game for free on Jio Cinema.
| Broadcast Details | Channel/Platform |
|---|---|
| TV Channels | Sports18 1, Sports18 1 HD, Sports18 3 |
| Online Streaming | Jio Cinema |
India vs. Kuwait lineups, team news
Despite losing to Afghanistan in the March qualifiers, India still has a chance to advance to the next round.
The team aims to field a strong lineup, including key players Lallianzuala Chhangte and Sunil Chhetri. Defenders Anwar Ali and Sandesh Jhingan will also be crucial for the hosts.
India predicted XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Sandhu (GK) — Poojary, Anwar Ali, Jhingan, Mishra — Jeakson, Anirudh — Abdul Samad, Mahesh Singh, Chhangte — Chhetri.
India subs (9): TBC
India and Kuwait are close in the points table, separated only by goal difference. Kuwait will rely on players like Khaled Ebrahim and Eid Al Rasheedi, with Salman Al-Awadhi leading the attack.
Kuwait predicted XI (4-1-4-1 right to left): Al-Saanoun (GK) — Dashti, Ebrahim, Al-Buloushi, Muhaisen — Al Enezi — Al Fnaini, Al-Enezi, Al Rasheedi, Daham — Al-Awadhi
Kuwait subs (9): TBC
India vs. Kuwait prediction
This will be the seventh meeting between India and Kuwait. India has won three matches, while Kuwait has won two. They had one draw in last June’s SAFF Championship group stage.
None of their past six meetings ended goalless. We can expect goals from both sides. This time, India may have extra motivation to win as they bid farewell to Sunil Chhetri.
Prediction: India 2-1 Kuwait.
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