AFC Asian Cup: India Falls Short Against Syria, Ends Campaign Without a Victory

Al Khor: In a closely contested battle, India faced a 0-1 defeat against Syria in their final Group B match of the AFC Asian Cup. The encounter witnessed intense moments as both teams showcased attacking prowess, but it was Omar Khribin’s 76th-minute goal that ultimately decided the fate of the game.

The first half ended with a 0-0 scoreline, with notable attempts from both sides. India’s Sunil Chhetri narrowly missed a crucial header inside the box, while Syria’s Pablo Sabbag forced Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu into a remarkable diving save with a powerful header.

India’s head coach Igor Stimac made strategic changes, introducing midfielders Lallianzuala Chhangte and Deepak Tangri, and reinforcing the defense with the experienced Subhasish Bose. On the other side, Syria, under the guidance of Hector Cuper, maintained their lineup.

Despite India’s promising start, with Mahesh Naorem testing Syria’s goalkeeper Ahmad Madanieh, the Qasioun Eagles gradually gained momentum. The attacking trio of Sabbag, Ezequiel Ham, and Mouaiad Alajaan posed constant threats to the Indian defense, but Gurpreet’s resolute goalkeeping kept the score level.

In the second half, the pressure escalated for both teams to break the deadlock. Syria introduced Khrbin, the 2017 AFC Player of the Year, who made an immediate impact. However, India had a golden opportunity when a lapse by the Syrian goalkeeper presented an opening, but Chhangte failed to capitalize.

Syria eventually found the breakthrough in the 75th minute when Khrbin’s right-footed shot eluded Gurpreet’s reach, securing his 22nd goal for the national team.

Despite India’s determined efforts in the final minutes, they couldn’t find the equalizer, concluding their AFC Asian Cup campaign without a win. The Blue Tigers, led by Igor Stimac, now shift their focus to regroup and assess their performance in the tournament.