Uzbekistan Defeats India 3-0 in AFC Asian Cup Group B Match

The Indian men’s football team suffered a 3-0 defeat against Uzbekistan in their second Group B match of the AFC Asian Cup. The match took place at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar. Uzbekistan dominated the game, securing goals from Abbosbek Fayzullayev, Igor Sergeev, and Sherzod Nasrullaev in the first half.

India, currently ranked 102 in the FIFA men’s football rankings, faced tough opposition from Uzbekistan, who are placed 34 spots higher. The Indian defense struggled to contain Uzbekistan’s attack, leading to an early goal by Fayzullayev in the 4th minute. Sergeev extended the lead in the 18th minute by capitalizing on a loose ball inside the box.

Uzbekistan continued to dominate, with Nasrullaev scoring their third goal in stoppage time of the first half. Despite trailing by three goals, India managed to create some chances towards the end of the first half, but failed to convert them into goals.

In the second half, India had opportunities to score, with Akash Mishra and Rahul KP coming close to finding the back of the net, but were denied by the Uzbekistan goalkeeper. Despite a spirited performance, India could not close the gap, and Uzbekistan held onto their three-goal lead.

India will now face Syria in their final Group B match in Al Khor. A win in this match is crucial for India to stay in contention for a place in the knockout stage of the AFC Asian Cup.