(Football News) India faced a pinprick that burst their optimistic bubble within three minutes of the clash against Uzbekistan. Despite assumptions that the toughest team in their group was behind them, India encountered an Uzbekistan side, undoubtedly one of the top 6 teams in Asia, outperforming even Australia. Uzbekistan swiftly scored three goals in the first half, extinguishing any hopes India had of making it a competitive match.

The downfall began early for the team when Sandesh Jhingan failed to clear a looping ball into the box, allowing Abbosbek Fayzullaev to score with a header, putting Uzbekistan ahead within three minutes. While the team struggled to find their footing, it became evident that the Uzbeks, while not extraordinary, efficiently executed their fundamentals. Uzbekistan maintained dominance, doubling their advantage in the 18th minute through a sequence initiated by an error. A hopeful dribble attempt by Rahul Bheke ended in disaster, with Igor Sergeev capitalizing on the mistake.

India attempted to limit the damage by focusing on defensive passes, but Uzbekistan continued to press forward, adding a third goal just before halftime. A Farrukh Sayfiev cross led to Nikhil Poojary’s defensive lapse, allowing Sherzod Nasrullaev to score easily. In the second half, India struggled to create meaningful attacks, with sporadic attempts hitting the crossbar or missing the target. Despite some chances, India succumbed to their second consecutive defeat in the Asian Cup 2023.

Looking ahead, India faces Syria with an outside chance of qualifying for the Round of 16, depending on a victory and favorable results from other matches—a scenario that typically doesn’t align with the national team’s fortunes.

Also Read: If you allow time and space to a side like Uzbekistan, they will kill you: Stimac