In its third match, India lost to 2-3 against Syria (highest FIFA ranking among the participating teams.
India started dominating from very first minute, hence scored match's first goal in 13th minute by Delhi's lad Sunil Chhetri (jersey number 11). The whole stadium turned aggressive then. But soon Syria levelled the score in 23rd minute by a header goal. And, by one more goal in 42nd minutes, half time scoreline became 1-2.
Although it was very tough to cover up their lead, still our striker tried very hard but lack of communication in defence line concieved one more goal and score line became 1-3. Match became very dull then as Indian side got tired & Syrians started applying foul tactics by wasting time cuz they were assuming a two goal lead is enough to win.
I can still remember when score line were 2-3 against us, match refree gave four minutes injury time after regular 90 minutes, Syrians started felling down as if they were hit by opponent player. And they wasted almost two minutes out of those crucial, dying much needed four minutes.
But the match's spectacular goal came in 81st minute when Indian side substituted player Ajayan Nair came up with solo effort, dribbling past three Syrian defender and aimed a hard left footer from 30 yards that took the syrian Goalie Mowssab by surprise. He made Bob houghton's decision right. The goal did bring a life back but it was too late for the Indians.
In all, they played some fantastic soccer inthe first half through flawless ball possession in the mid-field while their forwardskept on making intermittent raids into the indian defence. It paid them big as they finally roped in the match, making them the first team to reach finals.
Now, the only & best way to take 'BADLA' is first beat Krygistan first on Sunday's match and face them (Syria) again in Finals on Wednesday & clinch the title.
Good Luck Houghton !!!
Show them Indian pace... :)
