India at AFC Asian Cup: Will Blue Tigers Struggle Without Anwar Ali, Jeakson Singh?

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The Indian football team is set to begin their AFC Asian Cup 2024 journey on January 13. They begin against the toughest opponent Australia in Group B. Additionally, the absence of two key players is only going to make it tougher for the Blue Tigers.

Centre-back Anwar Ali and defensive midfielder Jeakson Singh have both missed the trip to Qatar with injuries. Even though coach Igor Stimac has replacements, like Rahul Bheke, Apuia Ralte, and more, India could still suffer.

India have already played two World Cup qualifiers matches without the duo. They edged past Kuwait by a narrow 1-0 margin in their first match for a historic win. However, the defensive lapses resulted in a 3-0 result in their following fixture against Qatar at home.

Considering this result against the 58th-ranked Qatar, India could suffer worse against the Socceroos, who are ranked 25th. It could become difficult to hold the fort at the back without Anwar Ali and Jeakson Singh.

Anwar Ali is probably the most complete centre-back in the current Indian football team. His passing and ball-holding ability in the back has proven detrimental to forming the perfect duo with Sandesh Jhingan.

Ali also has the ability to score when needed. With a lack of a perfect replacement, they could suffer. Rahul Bheke was introduced in both of the qualifiers matches. He could be called up again to face Australia in India's first AFC Asian Cup 2024 match.

Recently Mohun Bagan coach Clifford Miranda informed that Anwar Ali is making progress. They're expecting him to be back before ISL restarts. On the other hand, Jeakson Singh seems to have been named in the Kerala Blasters squad for their upcoming Kalinga Super Cup match.

However, Jeakson Singh was left out of the Indian football team squad for the AFC Asian Cup 2024 campaign. The coach has played Suresh Singh along with Anirudh Thapa. However, considering Jeakson Singh was a regular choice and was a key member in victories over Lebanon and Kuwait in the SAFF Championships, it's sure to affect the team.