Chhetri's hat-trick secures India's victory against Pakistan to begin SAFF campaign

In a group stage game between India and Pakistan in the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship, played at Bengaluru's Sree Kanteerava Stadium, the men in blue managed a 4-0 victory against the Pakistan side thanks to skipper Sunil Chhetri's hat-trick and a goal from forward Udanta Singh Kumam who was substituted in the game late in the second half.

The Indian captain rose to the occasion to levy up his tally of international goals to 90 with a hat-trick in this heated game.

Things heating up in the Indo-Pak tie, as always

Although the Indian side managed a comfortable victory, India's winning coach, Igor Stimac, was under fire from the officials for interfering in the game while protesting a foul that was awarded as a throw-in. Stimac was later shown a red card for his action, which saw him leave the pitch.

It's Sunil Chhetri's world, we're all just living in it

After scoring the crucial three goals against Pakistan, the 38-year-old Indian captain Sunil Chhetri has now become the footballer with the most international goals in Asia with 90, surpassing Malaysia's Mokhtar Dahari. Chhetri has managed this brace in 138 appearances for the country. The Indian skipper ranks third among active players with the most international goals and fourth in the all-time list of the same.

Consecutive wins for the blues

A win against Pakistan to commence the SAFF campaign held more than sentimental value for the Indian team. This victory adds to India's steady run, which now makes the Blues 10 games undefeated, and continues the commendable run of eight consecutive clean sheets, defeating the opponents without conceding a single goal. In India's last tie as well in the Intercontinental Cup finals, India managed a victory over Lebanon by scoring two goals and conceding none.