Syria’s Qasioun Eagles reach new heights

Indeed, it was only the width of a post that denied Syria a pivotal win over Australia in AFC’s Russia 2018 play-off. Omar al Soma’s fierce last-gasp free-kick in Sydney pinged off the upright, with Socceroos’ goalkeeper Mat Ryan beaten.

Had Al Soma’s strike gone in, Syria would have progressed on away goals at the expense of the Asian champions to be just 180 minutes from Russia. Given Australia ultimately overcame Honduras in the intercontinental play-off with considerable more ease than they did Syria, one can only wonder what might have been.

The ongoing civil conflict in Syria meant the West Asians have led a nomadic existence in recent years, with their Russia 2018 home qualifiers staged on the other side of the Asian continent in Malaysia.

But, despite a modest record at international level, the Qasioun Eagles proved themselves to be highly resilient during their campaign for Russia 2018, conceding just eight goals in their 10 third-round matches. Only continental heavyweights Islamic Republic of Iran and Korea Republic finished ahead of Syria, who edged Uzbekistan to third place in Group A on goal difference.

While maiden World Cup qualification proved a bridge too far, Syria were rewarded on the latest FIFA World Ranking with a highest-ever position of 75. It is an impressive increase from their lowest ranking of 151 just four years ago.

Syria midfielder Hamid Mido believes the team’s new status is just reward for their results.

“The recent improvement in the FIFA World Ranking is notable and the position that we have now reflects the level of Syrian football, especially with the results that the national team achieved,” Mido told FIFA.com.