An uninspired Indian football team's problems were made worse by its defensive errors, and on Thursday in the AFC Asian Cup, they were thrashed 0–3 by a formidable Uzbekistan.
India has already lost two straight games in Group B. They began the season with a 0–2 loss to Australia, the reigning champions, despite receiving praise for their passionate play. But India's performance at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium against the country of Central Asia was a long cry from their showing against the FIFA World Cup regulars, the Socceroos.
After being held to a draw by Syria in their tournament opener, Uzbekistan scored goals through Abbosbek Fayzullaev (4th minute), Igor Sergeev (18th), and Nasrullaev (45th) to record their first victory in the competition.
India will play their final group match against Syria on January 23. PTI AH UNG.