Indian Football Team’s hopes in the AFC Asian Cup hang by a thread. The Blue Tigers, gear up for do-or-die game against Syria in the final Group B match. Ahead of the India vs Syria game, Igor Stimac named a surprising starting XI with Sunil Chhetri in a new role as they eye a crucial win.
Stimac has opted for a 4-2-3-1, rather than his tried and test method. Sunil Chhetri has been designated as the No.10 player, positioned behind Manvir Singh as the striker, providing a supply for wingers Lallianzuala Chhangte and Udanta Singh.
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The defensive lineup consists of Subhasish Bose and Sandesh Jhingan as central defenders, with Rahul Bheke taking on the role of right-back. In the central midfield, Apuia and Deepak Tangri are set to partner Anirudh Thapa.
Despite being in good health, Sahal Abdul Samad has not been included in the starting lineup, while the reasons for Nikhil Poojary moving to the bench remain undisclosed.
India vs Syria Starting Line-up
India Starting XI
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK); Rahul Bheke, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhashish Bose, Akash Mishra; Deepak Tangri Anirudh Thapa, Apuia, Sunil Chhetri, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh
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