Footballer stirs controversy after SAFF victory with 'Manipur flag', issues clarification

After India clinched ir 9th SAFF Cup Title at Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bangalore on Tuesday, beating Kuwait 5-4 in penalties, celebrations emanated and rhythm of "Vande Mantram" echoed throughout circular figure. However, in between all ecstasy, re came a moment that did t land well among spectators, who were ingrained to tv screens or were present at venue. As players were in delirium, a prominent member of side brought out his state's flag. act caused controversy as fans were bemused over showcasing of a regional flag in a contest that incorporates entire country. 

3 Things you need to kw:

• India defeated Kuwait in SAFF Cup Final on Tuesday
• regulation time ended in a score of 1-1
• match went to penalties where India prevailed by a score of 5-4

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Jeakson Singh draws criticism for displaying Manipur's flag after SAFF Final win

Jeakson Singh, who plays as a defensive midfielder for India and also is nation's first entry as a goalscorer in FIFA tournament, faced flak over wrapping himself in Manipur's flag after India defeated Kuwait in SAFF Cup final. fans went ablaze on social media and some even appealed to authoritarians to take action against Singh. 

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Jeakson Singh issues clarification

As match, culminated Singh was asked to present his thoughts on multi-colored cloth he donned, to which he confirmed, it is flag of his native state, Manipur, and with it, he wants to spread a mess of unity and peace in his state.

“It's my Manipur flag. I just wanted to tell everyone in India and Manipur to stay in peace and t fight. I want peace,” he told ESPN.

Jeakson carried flag around him throughout medal ceremony and it was on display till he left field.