India at AFC Asian Cup: Blue Tigers' attack and their efforts that were in vain

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After three losses in their three group-stage matches, India dropped out of the AFC Asian Cup 2023. When there were a lot of expectations from the Indian football team, their performances left a lot to be desired.

India were unable to score any goals in all three matches. They made a combined total of 21 shots in those matches and only five were on target. That paints the picture of the Blue Tigers’ attack in their fruitless campaign.

Coach Igor Stimac had to name his squad for the campaign without key player Ashique Kuruniyan due to his ligament injury. Indian forwards that travelled to Qatar were Ishan Pandita, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh, Rahul Kannoly Praveen, Sunil Chhetri, and Vikram Partap Singh

The coach played Manvir Singh and Sunil Chhetri in all three matches. It’s no news that a lot was expected from the world-class skipper and the talented winger. However, they couldn't deliver in any of the three matches.

Singh’s performance was affected when he had to move down to defend. He tried several times but failed to turn it in their favour in the opponent's box. Similarly, the captain tried but couldn't find the back of the net or build up good opportunities.

Undoubtedly, Australia, Uzbekistan, and Syria were formidable opponents. They are far above India in FIFA rankings with skilful players who play in Europe and are physically stronger. These factors came into play when Singh, Chhetri, or anyone else tried moving up the field.

Lallianzuala Chhangte got injured during a training session before their second match against Uzbekistan and missed that game but did return for the final group game of the AFC Asian Cup 2023. In the two games Chhangte played, the forward did show glimpses of his raw pace but was struggling to show consistency at this level of football.

Vikram Pratap Singh played only a minute in their match against Australia. Rahul Kannoly Praveen played 45 minutes in India's 2nd AFC Asian Cup 2023 match against Uzbekistan. He was effective in the final third as he came on. However, even he couldn't keep up the pace and make the desired impact in the final third except for shaving the crossbar in one of the attempts.