SINGAPORE – The Lions’ unbeaten run at the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers came to an end early this morning (Sept 4), after a 1-0 loss to Syria - ranked world No 121 - at the Sultan Qaboos Stadium in Oman.
Lions striker Khairul Amri was left to rue a couple of missed chances in the first half, particularly in the 21st minute, as the 30-year-old’s shot from 5m out beat Syrian goalkeeper Ibrahim Almeh, only to hit the side netting.
Syria put the ball at the back of the net via Mahmoud Al Mawas at the stroke of half-time, but the referee disallowed it as the ball was already ruled out of play before it reached Al Mawas.
Syria’s star striker Raja Rafee – who has scored 32 goals in 67 appearances for his country - continued to threaten the Singapore defence, sending the Republic’s defenders scrambling to clear the ball each time.
Khairul’s final attempt in the 84th minute was foiled by Syrian goalie Ibrahim, as the Syrians held on to win the match, 1-0.
The winners of each of the eight groups from the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, along with the four best second-placed teams, will progress to the third round and the 2019 Asian Cup.