New Delhi, Sept. 21 -- India put on a spirited display but ultimately fell short against hosts Kuwait, losing 1-4 in their first Group A encounter of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers at the Qushaian Al-Mutairi Hall in Ardiya. The teams went into half-time with Kuwait holding a narrow 2-1 lead, as per the official website of the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

It was India's second-ever appearance in the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Qualifiers, and the 135th-ranked side knew they were up against formidable opponents in Kuwait, who sit 43rd in the world rankings. Despite the gulf in experience and rankings, India -- guided by Iranian head coach Reza Kordi -- showed admirable grit and tactical maturity.

The Futsal Tigers set the tone...