Asian Cup: Syria make history reaching knockouts

Syria’s national football team has achieved a historic milestone by advancing to the knockout stage of the Asian Cup for the first time ever. This accomplishment holds great significance for a country that has been ravaged by conflict.

The players celebrated their victory by lifting Omar Khrbin in the air, fully aware of the momentousness of the occasion. Khrbin’s goal, the only one scored by Syria during the group stages, secured a 1-0 win against India and secured their place in the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed teams. This goal will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the most important moments in Syrian football.

Despite not having played a home game in over a decade due to the ongoing conflict, the overwhelming emotions of the players and coaching staff were palpable.

In a post-game interview, head coach Hector Cuper, along with the translator and interviewer, couldn’t hold back their tears. Cuper expressed his immense happiness and pride in his players’ qualification, acknowledging the sacrifices they made to achieve this result. He emphasized that their goal is to continue progressing in the tournament and not settle for just reaching the knockout stage.

Cuper, an esteemed Argentinian coach, has an impressive track record in football, having led Valencia to the Champions League final twice and Egypt to the Africa Cup of Nations final in 2017, as well as guiding them to their first World Cup appearance in 28 years in 2018. At the age of 68, this may be his final opportunity to leave a lasting impact on the sport, and he has certainly brought immense joy to Syrian fans with this historic achievement.

Country in Conflict

Amidst the backdrop of a nation engulfed in a tragic crisis, the accomplishment becomes even more extraordinary. Entering 2024, Syria, ensnared in over a decade of conflict, continued to experience the same violence that marred the preceding year. Nada al-Rashed, a director of the Syrian Civil Defense (White Helmets), shared this grim reality with Al Jazeera earlier this month, emphasizing the ongoing bloodshed.

However, the country’s suffering extends beyond the bombings. In February 2023, a devastating earthquake claimed the lives of over 6,000 individuals. The Syria Earthquake RDNA reported that the physical damages amounted to an estimated $3.7 billion (€3.4 billion).

Merely four days after this catastrophe, Cuper assumed his role and promptly expressed his deep desire to bring joy to Syrian fans who had endured immense suffering. He acknowledged that they could not eradicate the pain but committed to alleviating it to the best of their team’s abilities.

History and an opportunity

As they progress to the knockout stage, Syrian footballers are envisioning the chance to create more history. Additionally, this tournament presents an opportunity for these players to transform their careers.

According to Syrian midfielder Mohammed Osman, the Asian Cup holds immense significance for many players as it serves as a major market and a platform to showcase their abilities. Osman stated, “It provides an extra motivation, knowing that a successful tournament could open up exciting new prospects.”

Out of the 26 players in the squad, 10 play outside of the Middle East, with eight of them based in Syria. None of them currently compete in Europe’s top five leagues.

It is possible that Syria’s journey in the Asian Cup may come to an end in the next round. It is also uncertain whether any of the current squad members will secure moves to Europe or if this remarkable moment will contribute to their 2026 World Cup qualification. However, these uncertainties are inconsequential at present. The fact that Syria’s footballers have already made history is something to be cherished.