In their last Group B match of the AFC Asian Cup, the Indian football team lost 1-0 to Syria on Tuesday at the Al Bayt Stadium in Qatar.
Omar Khrbin’s game-winning goal in the 73rd minute gave the Eagles of Qasioun the win after the sides were level for most of the match.
India put up an aggressive performance in the match, hoping to open their goal account in the competition after two previous failed attempts.
The Blue Tigers went into the game hoping to win so they could go to the continental competition as one of the third-placed teams from the six groups. But with less than fifteen minutes remaining, Khrbin’s goal shattered the Indian defence, ending their hopes of competing in the tournament in Qatar.
The defeat condemned India to a poor campaign in which Igor Stimac’s side failed to win a single game or win a single point from a draw after losing all three of their group matches.
India began their campaign with a 0-2 defeat against Australia, despite some impressive defensive integrity and grit. However, the Blue Tigers struggled to hold on for 90 minutes against the experienced Socceroos, who scored twice in the second half to start their campaign on a winning note.
India afterwards faced Uzbekistan, which similarly resulted in a defeat as the white wolves secured a 0-3 victory over the Indians, significantly reducing the Blue Tigers’ chances of advancing.