Syria Beats Uzbekistan 1-0 In 2018 WC Qualifier

MELAKA (Malaysia), March 24 (Bernama) -- Syria pulled off a surprise 1-0 victory over Uzbekistan in their Group A 2018 World Cup Qualifier at the Hang Jebat Stadium, Thursday night. Both teams were deadlocked in the first half despite both teams playing an attacking brand of football. Uzbekistan midfielder Masharipov Jaloliddin fired a thunderous shot in the 14th minute but was saved by Syrian goalkeeper Ibrahim Alma. A defensive lapse by Uzbekistan gave Syria a shot at goal through Omar Kharbin in the 15th minute but the attempt was denied by Uzbekistan goalkeeper Egor Krimets. Uzbekistan began attacking again after the break, but defender Davron Khashimov's attempt in the 82nd minute went past the post. Omar Kharbin emerged hero of Babayan Samvel's squad when he scored the winning goal from the penalty spot in the 90th minute. Syria, known as 'The Qasioun Eagles', are currently fourth in Group A and scheduled to meet South Korea at the Seoul World Cup Stadium on March 28. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan who are nicknamed the 'White Wolves', sit in third place with nine points, and will meet Qatar at home on the same date. -- BERNAMA