In Football, defending champions India kicked off their AFC Challenge Cup qualifying round campaign with a stunning 3-0 victory over Chinese Taipei. Indian Forward, Jeje Lalpekhlua struck the opener in the 32nd minute, giving India a flying start at the MPBJ Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on Monday. Sunil Chhetri, who was leading the side in the absence of injured Bhaichung Bhutia, tightened the screws over the opponents by scoring the second goal for India in the 76th minute. Substitute Sheikh Jewel Raja, then put the Group-B match beyond Chinese Taipei's reach with a superb strike just four minutes before the final whistle to give Bob Houghton's boys a well-deserved win. India next faces arch-rivals Pakistan on Wednesday.