India wins Nehru Cup Football

It's a historic achievement for the Indian football team, as it won a rare international football title. India beat Syria 1-0 to the win the ONGC Nehru Cup tournament. N.P. Pradeep scored the solitary goal in the 44th minute. However, the main credit goes to goalkeeper Subrata Paul, who scored impossible chances to ward off a spirited Syrian attack.

It was heartwarming to see Indian matching the Syrians in every aspect of the game - speed, control, aggression and tactics. Syria tried their best to check Baichung Bhutia and Sunil Chetri, but in vain. Although they did not score, they contributed significantly in India's win. It is to be noted that Syria is ranked 39 places above India in FIFA rankings.

Indian team was awarded $40,000 for this victory; a similar amount was contributed by the ONGC.