Maldives loses 2-1 to Syria in today's joint World Cup- Asian Cup qualification match.

Playing in Dubai, as Syria is not allowed to host by FIFA, Syria dominated the first half, with Maldives playing almost everyone behind the ball. Maldives defense was beaten when Omar Al Somah scored from a direct freekick beating Maldives captain Mohamed Faisal in the twenty sixth minute. Maldives defended well trying to go forward on the break. 

Segrt brings on Maldives heavy weaponry in the second half by introducing Ali Ashfaq(Dhagandey) into the game, Syria started to play more cautious giving respect for former Maldives captain. However fifteen minutes into the second half, Maldives fell further back, Al Somah again scoring from a corner this time. Maldives playing a more open game with Ashfaq holding the ball up.

Five minutes after Syria's second goal, Dhagandey finds himself behind the defense line with only the goalkeeper to beat. Ahmed Al Salih didn't have any choice as he gets a red card for foul on Dhagandey. Dhagandey's freekick was however saved by Ibrahim Alma. Dhagandey lights up Maldivian hearts with a headed goal in the seventieth minute when Hussain Shifau's (Kuro) long throw found it's way to Dhagandey at far post. 

Maldives pushed forward looking for a goal with former captain Asadullah Abdulla getting a free chance, and captain Faisal pulling off two quick saves for Maldives in the other end. Syria was defended desperately with ten men delaying the game.

The win takes Syria to the second with six points. Maldives remains second from bottom. Maldives will play their next game against Philippines in Maldives.

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