Syria achieves something historic: for the first time in the knockout phase of the Asian Cup

Victory against India

Syria’s national team achieved something historic at the Asian Cup in Qatar. For the first time in its history, the war-torn country is in the knockout phase of the continental tournament after beating India 1-0 (0-0) on Tuesday. Substitute Omar Khribin’s goal in the 76th minute secured the team of internationally experienced coach Héctor Cúper third place in Group B and thus progression as one of the four best third-placed teams.

Khribin’s strike at Al Bayt Stadium was Syria’s only goal in three group games, but it was enough to send them into the round of 16 behind group winners Australia and Uzbekistan. In its six previous attempts, Syria had never progressed beyond the first round.

The 68-year-old coach Cúper had, among other things, once led FC Valencia to the final of the European Champions League twice, but in 2001 he only missed the big triumph in the penalty shootout against FC Bayern. He has been in charge of the Syrian selection since last year.

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