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Xtra Time Web Desk: India’s Intercontinental Cup 2024 journey came to a disappointing end as they suffered a 0-3 defeat against Syria at the Gachibowli Stadium on Monday. In what was coach Manolo Marquez’s first assignment with the national team, India struggled to make an impact, with Syria dominating the match and securing the title.

Syria, needing only a draw to lift the trophy, fielded a much-changed team but still managed to overwhelm the Indian side. Mahmoud Al Aswad opened the scoring for the visitors in the 7th minute, capitalizing on chaotic defending in the Indian box. Despite a few efforts from India to push forward, Syria continued to control the game, with India’s defence showing signs of vulnerability.

Tough end for India in the #Intercontinentalcup as they fall to Syria and wrap up the campaign! ????#INDSYR #IndianFootball ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/3qqAjZDl0N

— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) September 9, 2024

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Syria almost doubled their lead soon after, but a powerful shot from Alaa Aldin rattled the post, keeping India momentarily in the game. Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu was called into action multiple times as the Syrian attack kept probing, particularly down the right side.

India, although struggling defensively, found some momentum going forward in the first half, with Sahal Abdul Samad and Lallianzuala Chhangte creating a few half-chances. However, they failed to truly test Syrian goalkeeper Elias, and the first half ended 1-0 in Syria’s favor.

In the second half, India made tactical changes, bringing on Apuia Ralte and Asish Rai. There were brief moments of hope as Chhangte and Sahal led some positive attacking moves, but India couldn't convert their opportunities.

Syria clinches the Intercontinental Cup title. ????#IndianFootball ⚽️ #IntercontinentalCup2024 pic.twitter.com/pLON8ItVKA

— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) September 9, 2024

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Syria, however, doubled their lead in the 77th minute through Daleho Irandust, whose powerful shot slipped through Gurpreet's hands. India’s frustrations mounted as they hit the crossbar twice, first through Liston Colaco and then Chhangte, but the finishing touch eluded them.

In stoppage time, Sabbag sealed the win for Syria, scoring the third goal and putting the final nail in India's campaign. The defeat left India winless in the tournament and marked a tough start for Marquez, who will be looking to rebuild ahead of future competitions.

India will have to reflect on a tournament that never quite went their way. With Sunil Chhetri having retired, the onus now falls on the entire team to step up and play cohesively to overcome tough opponents like Syria. The absence of Chhetri’s leadership and experience was felt, and the team will need to regroup and find new ways to rise to the challenge in future competitions.