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Indian Football team crashes out of Asian Games 2023 following 2-0 loss to Saudi

Indian Football team’s hopes of tasting Asian Games glory were put to an end as Saudi Arabia defeated the Blue Tigers by 2-0 in Round of 16 clash. India entered the Last 16 stage on the back of a 1-1 draw against Myanmar in their final group stage after losing and winning their first 2 group matches.

Igor Stimac’s side having arrived at Hangzhou in a terrible condition without sleep, adequate space to rest and some key players. I don’t even want to bring up the topic of ISL clubs not wanting release their players, something that hindered India’s preparation for the Continental games.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAxm662FI-g&pp=ygUdaW5kaWEgdnMgY2hpbmEgZm9vdGJhbGwgbWF0Y2g%3D

With only Sunil Chhetri and Sandesh Jhingan as the only 2 senior players, India lost its first Group match against China by 5-1. Rahul KP scored India’s only goal in fact the only Non-penalty goal of the tournament.

Against Bangladesh, Sunil Chhetri’s penalty towards the last 10 minutes helped India register their first win. The final group match against Myanmar was of course a reality check as the Blue Tigers conceded after Sunil Chhetri’s successful kick from the spot.

Earlier today when India squared up against Saudi Arabia for the Round of 16 clash even head coach Igor Stimac’s statement gave hints of an inevitable loss against the Green Falcons through a social media post.

“We fear no opponent but we know exactly what they are capable of. Win, draw or lose, tomorrow’s match will be a stepping stone for our boys against a formidable side and we are sure to come out of it with invaluable experience.” 

His fearless men did not let Saudi Arabia score in the first 45 minutes but they did show signs of conceding. There were no doubts about the Green Falcons having a superior share in ball possession rate. India were forced to do most of the hardwork, basically running behind the Saudi Arabians for the ball.
After a goalless 1st half, Saudi Arabia finished off the game with a brilliant win thanks to a brace from Marram Mohammed. Those 2 goals took all of the shine away from India’s first ever qualification to Asian Games Round of 16 in over 10 years. 

Meanwhile, India’s upcoming challenge will see them play Malaysia in a friendly on 13th October before starting their FIFA World Cup qualifiers (2nd round) against Kuwait on November.

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This is Rohan Mukherjee. A Cricket, Football and Kabaddi fanatic who only thinks about sports all day. Rohan has a Bachelor's degree in Mass Comm and Journalism all because of his passion to become a Sports Writer.

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