India produced a stunning comeback at the Asian Games on Tuesday, beating higher-ranked Qatar 3-2 in a thrilling Pool C match to reach the men’s volleyball quarter-finals for the first time in 40 years.
India last progressed beyond the group stage at the Asian Games in 1986, when they went on to win the bronze medal.
The result is even more impressive considering the difference in the world rankings. India are ranked 49th by the FIVB, while Qatar sit 43rd.
India Fight Back After Losing First Two Sets
India looked close to defeat after losing the opening two sets in a tightly contested match.
Qatar edged the first set 28-26 before taking the second 27-25. With India needing to win three sets in a row to stay alive, the team responded with an excellent comeback.
India won the third set 25-23 and then levelled the contest by taking the fourth set 25-20.
The match was then decided in a dramatic fifth set.
India Save Nine Match Points
The deciding set turned into a remarkable battle, with both teams refusing to give up.
India saved nine match points before finally sealing the set 24-22. John Joseph played a crucial role during the closing stages, producing important blocks as India held their nerve to complete a memorable victory.
Qatar’s Musa Mubarak was also outstanding despite ending up on the losing side. He scored 40 points for his team in a remarkable individual performance.
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India Top Pool C
The victory over Qatar completed an unbeaten group-stage campaign for India.
The Indian team had already defeated Hong Kong and Vietnam before producing their biggest win of the group stage against Qatar.
India have now topped Pool C and booked their place in the quarter-finals.
Their next match is scheduled for October 1, when they will look to continue their impressive run at the Asian Games.