Today, India take on Syria in their third Group B encounter of the AFC Asian Cup at the Al Bayt Stadium, Qatar. After two back-to-back losses, the Blue Tigers need to win this clash to keep alive their hopes of qualification for the next round. Meanwhile, Syria have managed only one point in two games but were impressive in those outings against higher-ranked teams like Australia and Uzbekistan. So, it’s a do-or-die situation for both teams.
Rankings
Syria – 91, India – 102
Head-to-Head Record
A total of six matches have been played so far between these sides, including international friendlies. India have the better record, having won thrice, with one game ending in a draw. India’s last win came in a 2012 friendly where they defeated Syria 2-1. The last time they faced each other, in the 2019 Intercontinental Cup, it was a 1-1 draw.
Form Guide
India
Against Australia, it was a tremendous effort from Igor Stimac and his boys in the first half, with a strong and disciplined defensive approach. However, due to a goalkeeping howler, they conceded and lost the game 2-0. In the next clash, the team looked clueless against Uzbekistan as they conceded three goals in the first half. But, in the second half, the Blue Tigers looked more positive and their attacking intent helped them to keep the Uzbeks at bay.
Syria
The Eagles of Qasioun began their campaign against Uzbekistan and it was a solid defensive display from Hector Cuper and his team. They earned a point with a 0-0 draw. Then, in the second game against the Socceroos, they again looked very compact in the back as the Aussies took 59 minutes to break the deadlock. They lost the game 1-0 but their defensive skills were again top-notch.
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It’s India vs Syria in the last group stage game for the Blue Tigers!
Join in with @Rahul_01Giri & @Swapnil_0114 with their insights into both the squads ahead of the game!
Training updates and more!@GlobeAllIndia @IndianFootball @afcasiancup #AsianCup2023 pic.twitter.com/qEroyDVjwi
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Qualification Scenario
Two top teams from each of the six groups will qualify for the Round of 16. Then, the four best third-placed teams from the six groups will also make it. Hence, a win for either of these teams will keep them alive in the race, as they hope for other results to go in their favour.
At the pre-match press conference on Monday, Stimac confirmed that Sahal Abdul Samad had returned to training and might get a chance in this tie. India, like Syria, have yet to score in this tournament and against a formidable defensive line, it is going to be another huge challenge for Sunil Chhetri and the others in the forward line.
Hector Cuper’s impact
The Argentine has a vast knowledge of coaching at both club and international levels. Cuper led Mallorca, the unfashionable Spanish club, to the Copa del Rey final in 1998 and the final of the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup in the following year. Then, he took Valencia to the UEFA Champions League final in back-to-back seasons.
Cuper also led Egypt to the 2017 African Cup of Nations final and the 2018 FIFA World Cup. In February 2023, he was appointed as the head coach of Syria. But, till now, it has not been a smooth ride for the Argentine.
In 12 matches so far, Syria have won just three, with five losses. Among those three wins, one win came against China in a friendly and another significant one was against North Korea in a World Cup qualifier.
Players to watch out for from Syria
Defensive duo of Abdul Rahman Weiss and Aiham Ousou
Both these players have played a crucial role in Syria’s impressive defensive record in the tournament. Ousou has made the most number of clearances so far. Their physical presence is going to make it an uphill task for Sunil Chhetri and Mahesh Naorem. Both these players have shown a lot of confidence on the ball as well.
Ammar Ramadan
This midfielder has been a superb performer in the playing XI so far in this Asian Cup. Ramadan has shown his excellence in picking up the right teammates and delivering quality balls forward.
Attacking duo of Pablo Sabbag and Omar Khribin
Khribin has 21 goals to his name for the national team. Hence, he promises to be a tough test for Sandesh Jhingan and the Indian defence. However, in this Asian Cup, Pablo Sabbag has started ahead of him and has been a significant threat upfront. Against Australia, he hit the post and his all-round play has been very impressive. Sabbag has the ability to create spaces for his teammates while holding the ball up and offers an aerial threat as well.
Also Read: Stimac Expects Sahal Abdul Samad to Play Some Part Against Syria