Xtra Time Web Desk: In a disappointing turn of events for the Indian football team during the AFC Asian Cup 2023, they suffered a 0-3 defeat in their second match against the 77th-ranked Uzbekistan. The Blue Tigers found themselves on the defensive from the outset, as goals from Fayzullaev (4’), Sergeev (18’), and Nasrullaev(45’+4’) in the first half dashed India’s hopes of qualifying for the next stage.
Coach Igor Stimac implemented three changes to the starting lineup, introducing Anirudh Thapa, Mahesh Naorem, and Akash Mishra in an attempt to maintain the positive momentum from their previous game against Australia. Unfortunately, the strategy did not pan out as expected, and the team encountered early challenges.
Uzbekistan took only four minutes to break through the Indian defence, with Fayzullaev exploiting a gap and cleverly converting a cross from Nasrullaev. The vulnerability in the Indian defence persisted, leading to Uzbekistan’s second goal, courtesy of an error by Rahul Bheke near the halfway line. Fayzullaev seized the opportunity, initiating a run at goal, and despite Mishra’s attempt to intercept, Sergeev capitalized on the chaos to score from close range.
As India sought to recover, a third blow just before halftime further dimmed their prospects. A right-flank cross for Uzbekistan found Nasrullaev strategically positioning himself ahead of his marker, sealing a 3-0 victory and halting India’s qualification aspirations in the AFC Asian Cup. The defeat highlighted defensive lapses and prompted a need for strategic reassessment by the Indian team.
For more sports news: Click here