#2 Flop - Mandar Rao Dessai
The same mistakes committed by Pritam Kotal on the right flank was repeated by Mandar Rao Dessai on the left. The full-back made his international debut against Tajikistan. Making a comeback into the lineup, Dessai was off-colour throughout the game.
While Kotal improved his game in the second half, Mandar was targetted and unsettled. He was troubled by the mounting pressure that came from attacks on his flank. The 27-year old was not good with the ball and found it difficult to manage the Syrian winger. His wing had too much open space which the attackers exploited at times.
In the attack, India had a huge potential on the left side with Chhangte shining brightly. However, Mandar could not offer the sufficient backup to produce a magic. The full-back lacked fitness to complete the game and had to be substituted by Jerry Lalrinzuala at the 75th minute.