The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as India takes on Syria in the final match of the 2024 Intercontinental Cup. The match, scheduled for Monday at the G.M.C. Balayogi Stadium in Hyderabad, will determine the winner of the prestigious tournament.
India, having begun the competition with a 0-0 draw against Mauritius, is aiming for their second consecutive Intercontinental Cup victory, adding to their overall tally of three titles. However, the path to victory won’t be easy, as they face a formidable opponent in Syria.
Syria, having defeated Mauritius 2-0 in their last match, holds a slight advantage going into the final. A draw will be enough for the Eagles of Qasioun to claim the trophy. Syria boasts a long history of participation in tournaments in India, though the coveted title has always eluded them. The West Asian side has previously endured heartbreaks, losing back-to-back Nehru Cup finals to India in 2007 and 2009 before finishing fourth in 2012. Their most recent visit to India was in the 2019 Intercontinental Cup, where they secured third place.
For the Blue Tigers to deny Syria their first silverware on Indian soil, they must overcome a winless streak dating back to November of last year. India’s head coach, Manolo Márquez, acknowledges the challenge ahead: “It will be a difficult game for both sides. It’s a friendly game, but the team who wins the game wins the trophy. We expect to play a good game and win the tournament.”
The teams have a history, having met earlier this year during the AFC Asian Cup in Qatar, where Syria emerged victorious with a 1-0 win thanks to a goal by Omar Khribin. This final match promises to be a captivating encounter as both teams strive for glory on the international stage.
