New Delhi: Robin Singh's double strike in the second half helped India start their SAFF Cup campaign with a 2-0 win over Sri Lanka, in Thiruvananthapuram, on Friday.
Robin, however, left the pitch on a stretcher immediately after the second goal in the 74th minute with a twisted right foot. His place was taken by debutant Lallianzuala. Later, an X-ray was done on his affected leg but no major damage was detected.
The victory has almost paved the way for India's entry into the semi-finals as their group has been reduced to a three-team affair because of Pakistan's withdrawal. India now need only a draw against Nepal on Sunday to top the group.
Sri Lanka, who defeated Nepal by a solitary goal in their first match, were on the defensive from the beginning but managed to hold India goalless till the half time. India had a couple of chances, but neither Jeje Lalpekhlua nor the captain Sunil Chetri could make use of the opportunities.
India finally opened the scoring five minutes into the second half. Enjoying a good form this season, Robin did not make any mistake when Chetri ran through the left to provide a perfect pass in front of the goalmouth. The tall striker reached in time to send the ball home with a neat left-footer.
One wonders what made the Sri Lankan coach make five changes from the team which defeated Nepal the other day, but it certainly did not do them any good. Their fate was sealed when Robin struck the second time, this time too the pass coming from Chetri.
As Chetri headed the ball for his Bengaluru FC teammate, Robin got past a couple of defenders and managed to push the ball towards the goal. Lankan defender Alawadeen made a last ditch attempt to stop the ball from going in, but ended up helping it on its way into the goal.