India slumped to a 1-2 defeat to Oman in their opening fixture of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Preliminary Joint Qualification match at the Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru.The home side conceded from kick-off itself as Qasim Said put his side ahead within just 20 seconds. India fought back bravely and got themselves the equalising goal, courtesy Sunil Chhetri. However, a needless tackle inside the box saw the hosts concede a goal from the spot just 10 minutes later. India also had a goal disallowed in the second half as Stephen Constantine’s team were undone by their own defensive errors.Four players made their debut in the India Starting XI, namely Sehnaj Singh, Rino Anto, Lalcchuammawia Fanai and Dhanachandra Singh as Seityasen Singh came on to make it five in the second half.Oman broke the deadlock with their first attack. They were allowed way too much space by the defenders as Qasim Said slotted it through Subrata Paul's legs.Oman had way too much space and time on the ball even after scoring an early goal. India’s first chance fell to them in the 21st minute. Arnab Mondal rose highest as he headed just inches away from the goal off a Eugenson Lyngdoh corner.India made their breakthrough in the 28th minute as Sunil Chhetri found the ball at his feet just inside the box. He took a touch before despatching a curling left-footed strike that came off the post and into the net.The visitors regained their lead in the 38th minute with Oman midfielder Al-Farsi making his way into the box before being brought down by Dhanachandra Singh. The referee didn’t hesitate before pointing to the spot. Oman’s highest goal scorer Imad Al Hosani converted from the spot sending Paul the wrong way.The second half started in similar fashion as the first. Oman had complete control of the game, with India pressing their visitors.India began to get into the game as Chhetri skipped past a couple of defenders and shot just above the crossbar. Oman were themselves guilty of wasted opportunities on a couple of occasions.With the end of the game approaching, India did manage to find the back of the net from a corner with Robin Singh flicking it in. But the referee flagged the goal offside.The game ended with the same score line as Oman bagged full three points from their first Group D game. India will look to make amends when they take on Guam in Guam on June 16th.
