In the AFC Asian Cup 2024 opener, the Indian men’s football team faced a 0-2 defeat against Australia at Qatar’s Ahmed bin Ali Stadium. Despite being ranked 77 places lower than Australia at world No. 102, India held their ground in the first half, preventing any goals. However, Australia’s Jackson Irvine broke the deadlock in the 50th minute, followed by Jordan Bos doubling the lead in the 73rd minute.
This loss places the Indian team at the bottom of Group B, which includes Uzbekistan and Syria. The top two teams from each group and the four best third-placed teams will advance to the round of 16.
Australia dominated the first half with over 70 percent possession, 14 shots, and 12 corners. The Indian defense, led by Sandesh Jhingan, held firm, thwarting Australia’s attempts to score. Despite Australia’s first-half dominance, Sunil Chhetri had a notable chance in the 16th minute, but his header from Nikhil Poojary’s cross went wide.
Australia’s persistence paid off in the second half when Jackson Irvine capitalized on a failed clearance by Indian goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu in the 50th minute. The momentum continued as substitute Jordan Bos scored with his first touch in the 73rd minute, with Riley Mcgree setting up the goal.
Upcoming Match
Despite Australia’s attempts to add more goals, the Indian team’s last-ditch defending kept the scoreline at 2-0. The next challenge for India in the AFC Asian Cup 2024 is against Uzbekistan, ranked 68th in the world, at the same venue on January 18.
