The Indian football team started their Asian Games campaign with a 5-1 loss to China. India, who sent a second string team to the Asiad because of a deadlock between AIFF and FSDL regarding releasing players from ISL teams, fought valiantly with the hosts. Rahul KP scored a wonderful goal to draw India level after being a goal down. However, China dominated the second half and put four past the Indian defence who looked tired. China’s Tao Qianlong bagged a brace. Here’s what the fans had to say after the defeat.
Also Read: India 1-5 China: Tao Qianglong brace hands fatigued Blue Tigers loss in Asian Games
Some social media users hailed the team’s effort after a long journey to China including an 11-hour layover. The team also went into the match without a single practice session.
Some users blasted AIFF for the mismanagement and lack of proper planning.
Rahul KP’s goal earned a lot of praise on social media, with many praising the youngster for his gutsy goal to bring back parity late into the first half.
The hosts started the match brightly, creating numerous opportunities in the initial 20 minutes. The ball was moved wide and crosses were sent into the penalty area, resulting in Gurmeet Singh having to make two saves in the initial 10 minutes.
Late in the first half of the match, China conceded a goal. Rahul KP responded with a brilliant run from the right wing to bring India back into the match. Abdul Rabeeh lofted a hopeful pass to Rahul, who was able to take advantage of the opportunity and fire a powerful shot from a seemingly impossible angle at the near post.
China began the second half on the frontfoot once again and retook the lead in the 50th minute through Dai Weijun’s strike from distance. India’s fitness then gave way, as Rabeeh, Bryce Miranda and Sumit Rathi all began fighting cramps.
China wrapped up the contest with two quick goals from Qianglong Tao, before substitute Hao Fang put the exclamation on the victory in second-half stoppage time.
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