![[WATCH] Rahul KP’s stunning equalizing goal against China to open India’s account in the Asian Games 2023](https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/skm/assets/article/article-scroll-left.svg "[WATCH] Rahul KP’s stunning equalizing goal against China to open India’s account in the Asian Games 2023")
After a tumultuous week, the Indian males’s nationwide workforce lastly traveled to China for the 2023 Asian Video games. Their preliminary problem got here towards the host nation, which introduced a big impediment.
The early levels of the sport proved troublesome for the Blue Tigers, with China scoring the opening purpose inside ten minutes. Nevertheless, India progressively discovered their footing and managed to stage the rating simply earlier than halftime, courtesy of a outstanding strike by Rahul KP.
Abdul Rabeeh, who performed out of place as a right-back, showcased his means with a well-executed lofted cross alongside the flanks. Rahul KP, using his tempo, capitalized on the chance, leaving the left-back behind and stunning the goalkeeper with a robust shot from an unbelievable angle.
You’ll be able to watch the purpose beneath:
This purpose not solely marked India’s first within the 2023 Asian Video games but additionally instilled a way of optimism among the many supporters.
Earlier within the half, China took the lead from a set-piece scenario and had been awarded a penalty halfway via. Nevertheless, Gurmeet Singh rose to the event, denying China’s captain Chenjie Zhu, maintaining his workforce within the sport.
Regardless of the hosts’ domination by way of possession and territory, India displayed resolute protection and deservedly secured the equalizer throughout a powerful spell in the direction of the tip of the half.
India will look to limit errors and take dwelling a optimistic consequence
The circumstances main as much as the sport had been unfavorable for India, as that they had no prior coaching classes. Moreover, the squad featured a number of debutants and inexperienced gamers, which added to the problem confronted by coach Stimac.
India began with none standard full-backs, with Sumit Rathi and Abdul Rabeeh – each debutants – enjoying on the flanks. China knew its weak point and constantly capitalized on India’s defensive vulnerabilities.
The Blue Tigers nonetheless seemed weak on the again however Gurmeet Singh was excellent within the first half, making a number of saves. As the primary half grew, the attackers appeared to hyperlink up higher and the purpose was a results of their improved exhibiting.
