This was particularly so in the face of a comprehensive victory for Syria over India in the Intercontinental Cup with a score of 3-0. This victory was not only a proof of Syria’s progress as a football nation, but also demonstrated the obstacles India has to overcome to become a team of the higher tier soccer competition.

The match was a well-fought one and the Syrian team was excellent in their defensive style while preventing the Indian team from doing anything. Both the teams performed and demonstrated flexibility and skill for the ninety minutes during the encounter that was witnessed by the fans in the stadium. Syria, thus, had the right to consider their counterattacking strategy as rather effective, as they managed to score their goals during the key moments of the match.

India despite had created couple of chances failed to convert the chances into goals which has been an area of concern for the team in the last few tournaments. This has led to heated debates on the future of Indian football and most experts have opined that more strength must be put into the development of the youth system to produce local talents.

The difference in performance showed that the Indian football team has a long way to go and whether the current infrastructure of football development in the country is sufficient or not. The post-match comments from the players and the coaches have ranged from disappointment to determination with the Indian camp rightly admitting that there is much room for improvement.

The Syrian team rejoiced while on the other hand the Indian team was in a very sad mood in the dressing room which is a common scene in international competitions. In the coming days, both the teams will be working on their formations and performance analysis for the next tours they are to play.

Overall a reality check for India and this could prompt the changes in coaching strategies and player development systems. Syria will be hoping to use this success to try and improve its FIFA rankings as well as trying to place itself among the soccer powerhouses in Asia.

At the end of this tournament especially now that the final whistle has been blown, there is much speculation and debate as to the future of these two teams in international football.