Men's Football: India Lose 0-2 vs Saudi Arabia, Crash Out Of Asian Games 2023

A formidable Saudi Arabia didn't bring their 'A' game to the fore yet were strong enough to ward off a gutsy challenge from India winning their pre-quarterfinal match 2-0 in the men's football competition in Hangzhou on Thursday. There was no doubt about Saudi Arabia's supremacy as forward Mohammed Khalil Marran's opportunistic twin strikes in the 51st and 57th minute ended Sunil Chhetri-led India's campaign at the continental event. However, Igor Stimac's players can hold their heads high with the kind of performance that they put in despite so much uncertainty and with AIFF sending a second string side due to the obstinate attitude from the Indian Super League (ISL) organisers who refused to release top players.

A victory against Saudi Arabia would have been a miracle but considering that this bunch of players haven't even been in a camp together, holding the potential gold medal contenders to a goalless deadlock for the first 45 minutes was a laudable effort from them.

The defence marshalled by Sandesh Jhingan kept its shape but it was the better stamina, stronger legs and superior skills of the Saudis that prevailed in the end.

Just like it happened during the China match, the wheels came off just after the 50th minute.

The only difference from that match was that the players were well rested and hence floodgates didn't open after the winners had scored a brace.

In the 51st minute, Mohammed Al Abu Shamat sent a perfect cross from the right flank and Khalil outwitted his marker Jhingan to powerfully nod it home giving his team the lead.

The goal did create a bit of panic in the Indian ranks and the second goal was completed in five touches.

After snatching the ball in the Indian defensive third, a defence splitting