India lose to Oman in World Cup Qualifier but win hearts with fighting display

[caption id=“attachment_2292510” align=“alignleft” width=“940”]  There was a pre-match feeling that this was a beginning of new era in Indian football. The fans were pumped, the players were ready. But Oman played spoilsport within the first minute. Getty Images.[/caption] [caption id=“attachment_2292516” align=“alignleft” width=“940”]  30 seconds was all it took for Oman to take the lead. Indian defense did not have the chance to even touch the ball from kickoff. Getty Images.[/caption] [caption id=“attachment_2292132” align=“alignleft” width=“940”]  Indian defenders took time to get their concentration going as the back-four was playing together for the first time. Arnab Mondal lead from the front with a near-flawless performance, though. PTI[/caption] [caption id=“attachment_2292452” align=“alignleft” width=“940”]  Though Oman targeted India’s fullback Rino’s flank in the early stages, the defender put in some late tackles and grew into his role as the game went on. PTI[/caption] [caption id=“attachment_2292514” align=“alignleft” width=“940”]  Sunil Chhetri restored parity on the night with a left-foot stunner that nestled in the top corner. The fact that it was his unnatural foot made it more special. Getty Images.[/caption] [caption id=“attachment_2292518” align=“alignleft” width=“940”]  India’s forward Robin Singh gave it his best on the pitch. He thought he had pulled India back with a late which was correctly ruled out for offside. India went down 2-1 eventually. Getty Images.[/caption] [caption id=“attachment_2292512” align=“alignleft” width=“940”]  Bengaluru fans turned up in excellent numbers - there were over 19000 - and were loud in their support through out the night, even when the team was struggling on the pitch. Indian players would have been glad to get such support and the fans weren’t disappointed either. Getty Images.[/caption]