In a thrilling showdown at the GMC Balayogi Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad, Syria claimed the title in the Intercontinental Cup 2024 by defeating defending champions India 3-0. The match, held on September 9, showcased Syria’s strength and tactical prowess, as they dominated the game from start to finish, much to the disappointment of the home crowd.
Syria kicked off the match with an intensity that left the Indian defense scrambling. Just seven minutes in, Mahmoud Al Aswad capitalized on a defensive miscommunication to score the opening goal, setting the tone for the match. His deft touch and precise finish were a testament to Syria’s offensive strategy, leaving Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu with little chance to react.
As the minutes ticked by, it became evident that India, under the new leadership of head coach Manolo Márquez, struggled to find their rhythm. Despite an array of substitutions and tactical adjustments, the team had difficulty penetrating Syria’s solid defensive line. The first half ended with India trailing, but there was a glimmer of hope as Sahal Abdul Samad tested Syria’s debutant goalkeeper, Elias Hadaya, with a powerful shot just before the half-time whistle.
Emerging from half-time with renewed determination, India aimed to level the score. The Blue Tigers displayed more confidence and kept their opponents on the back foot for a brief period. However, as India pressed for an equalizer, they exposed their back line, leading to Syria’s second goal in the 76th minute. Daleho Irandust executed a swift counter-attack, weaving through defenders before finding the net. This goal effectively dashed India’s hopes of a comeback.
Just as the match seemed concluded, Syria punctuated their victory with a third goal in stoppage time. Pablo Sabbag, ever opportunistic, tapped in from close range after a well-executed counter, sealing a resounding 3-0 victory for the West Asian side.
After the match, coach Manolo Márquez expressed his frustration over the team’s first-half performance, noting, “We were scared and not brave at all. The score isn’t a real reflection of the game.” His sentiment reflected the resilience displayed by India in the second half, yet it was clear that Syria’s superior execution left no doubt about their right to the title.
This Intercontinental Cup victory marks a significant milestone for Syria, as it is their first major title, especially on Indian soil, where they have faced tough competition in previous tournaments. The triumph signals not only a significant achievement for Syrian football but also a hint of their potential as a rising force in Asian football.
