In the debut match of Indian football team's World Cup venture, the hosts were trounced on a 3-0 margin by the visitors the USA.
The match held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi witnessed robust and strong US players completely dominating the game. Right from the kick-off, the North American country overshadowed the Indian players.
However, the JLN Stadium witnessed some fine display from India as they fought till the end. India coach Luis Norton de Matos deployed a good side against the USA, but what was missing was the real attacking intent.
With regard to their performance, Sportskeeda is tabulating the ratings of each player.
Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem - 7
Despite being one of the consistent players on the pitch for India, the blunders made by Indian defence forced Dheeraj to concede three goals. The goalkeeper hailing from Manipur saved half a dozen attempts in front of the goal line.
Jitendra Singh - 5.5
The AIFF Elite Academy product had a decent day in office. The player thwarted almost all the attacks but gave away the penalty that handed USA the lead.
In the first half, Jitendra was up to the mark, but he failed to stay stern against the fatal USA moves after the break.
Anwar Ali - 6
The Minerva Academy product had a fair game. He, along with Jitendra, rear-guarded the defence. In the first half, no flaws were made by him, but after half-time, he made a few too many glitches, which gave opportunities to the opposition.
Rahul Kannoly Praveen - 7.5
The best performer of the day, the player hailing from the southernmost state of India, Kerala did well against such a hefty and buoyed squad. He made his mark, denying some deleterious USA attacks with dazzling interceptions.
The player who plied his trade majorly in the defence also contributed not so paltry amount to the midfield as he dribbled past opponents, producing delicious opportunities for the Indian attackers to exploit.
Sanjeev Stalin - 6.5
Another player from the AIFF Elite Academy, Sanjeev Stalin had a decent game. A player blessed with quick pace and ball control, Sanjeev was an adaptable option for Matos on the left wing.
His insatiable attitude was used to square-off invasions through the right wing, which he almost won. Akin to what Rahul did, Sanjeev also went upwards to help attackers pierce past the defenders. His combo with Komal stands as one of the best performance of the night.
Abhijit Sarkar - 4.5
One of the reliable midfielders of the squad, Abhijit Sarkar failed to produce chances at the heart of the pitch and was obviously outplayed by the US midfielders.
Abhijit failed to perform his role that he was to the squad and he barely stamped his authority on the game.
Suresh Singh Wangjam - 6.5
The finest player India had seen in midfield, Manipurian sensation Suresh Singh Wangjam was in command to dominate the game for India. He made some fine, quick runs through the wings, provided the attackers with adequate chances, and oozed past the defenders. But what he displayed wasn't enough against USA.
Amarjit Singh Kiyam - 5
The captain had a bad in office. The 16-year-old star, who was expected to dictate the Indian play was seen barely just like Abhijit Sarkar.
Kumanthem Nonthoinganba Meetei - 5.5
Another player who performed desperately for the squad, Meetei was held at the wings by the opponents. A player who has an athletic and agile body, Meetei seemed too poor to play against booming and lanky opponents.
Aniket Anil Jhadav - 6
Aniket had only a modest game. The player, who has the ability to exploit loopholes any known defence, was not provided with adequate opportunities to pull the trigger. The marking of rangy defenders also put him away from escaping the defence.
Komal Thatal - 7
The Sikkimese sensation, Komal Thatal executed an elegant game for the Blues. Deployed at the left side of the attack, Komal inspired the fans with some crazy moves which kept the defenders away.
He pierced past the defenders but what was missing was the final touch to exploit. He provided his teammates with crosses but they failed to duly convert them.
Rahim Ali - 5.5
Coming on as a substitute, Rahim Ali spearheaded the Indian attack during the last quarter. He played an integral role in providing the ball to Komal and showcased his talent as he dazzled his opponents.
Nongdamba Naorem - NB