Dalian: In a disappointing turn of events, India's journey in the AFC U-23 Asian Cup 2024 Qualification came to a somber end with a resounding 0-3 loss to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The clash unfolded at the Dalian Suoyuwan Stadium on Tuesday, marking India's second consecutive defeat in the competition.

India's campaign culminated at the bottom of Group G, following a prior defeat to China with a scoreline of 1-2. In contrast, UAE asserted their dominance, securing the group's top spot with four points and a superior goal difference. China, also accumulating four points, now cling to an outside hope of progressing as one of the four best second-placed teams.

From the very outset, both India and UAE exhibited unwavering determination, setting a fiery tempo with intense tackles rampant throughout the pitch. Jiteshwor Singh earned himself a yellow card around the 15th-minute mark for a robust challenge in the middle of the field.

The UAE managed to break the deadlock in the 26th minute, exploiting a moment of disarray within the Indian defense. After a prolonged deliberation between the referee and his assistant, Mohammed Abbas Alblooshi was credited with the goal.

Just three minutes later, the UAE further solidified their lead when Sultan Adil Alameeri struck a low drive from inside the box, finding the back of the net.

Sensing the match slipping from their grasp, India began circulating the ball meticulously, probing for openings. Yet, the UAE's staunch defensive line remained impervious, thwarting the Indian advances.

After the halftime interval, India launched an offensive to exert pressure on the UAE's defense. Parthib Gogoi initiated a venture down the right flank into the attacking third early in the second half, but his cross eluded all the forwards.

India's head coach, Clifford Miranda, sought to alter the course of the game by introducing Rabeeh Anjukandan and Sourav in place of Sanjeev Stalin and Parthib Gogoi shortly after the hour mark, in hopes of narrowing the deficit.

However, UAE bided their time, waiting for the opportune moment to execute a counter-attack. Goalkeeper Hamad Abdulla Almeqbaali initiated a long ball forward, with Eisa Khalfan successfully capitalizing on the move to extend the lead to 3-0.

In the end, it was a challenging day for India as they bowed out of the competition, while the UAE secured their place at the top of the group, poised for the next phase of the AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers.

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