AFC Asian Cup 2023, India vs Uzbekistan: Who can feature alongside Sunil Chhetri in final third against White Wolves?

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The Blue Tigers played a strong defensive side against Australia in their first AFC Asian Cup 2023 match. This strategy was needed to at least get away with a draw against the AFC Giants, who are ranked FIFA No. 25.

Barring a few mistakes, India displayed good defensive play. Holding on to that, the Indian football team needs to go on the offense in their next game to win against Uzbekistan on January 18 in Group B of the AFC Asian Cup.

Coach Igor Stimac lined up players with defensive protests instead of attack-minded players against the Socceroos. Ahead of their match against Uzbekistan, the coach already said that several changes are coming. Hence, players like Noarem Mahesh Singh, Anirudh Thapa, and more should come in.

These players can move up the field to position themselves properly to help in the final third. However, it will be the players right behind India's captain fantastic Sunil Chhetri that could make the most difference in building attacks.

The coach has already said that they will go on the offensive approach against Uzbekistan. Hence, there's no doubt that skipper Sunil Chhetri who is their highest goalscorer, will start the match leading the attack.

The coach could line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation again. Hence, with Sunil Chhetri in the front, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Suresh Singh Wangjam, and Manvir Singh could start just behind him. Lallianzuala Chhangte started on the left flank in the last match.

However, Chhangte was one of the players not seen warning up with the team this evening. Hence, it can be assumed that he will not be taking to the field against Uzbekistan. As a result, the coach might have to bring in Naorem on the left flank.

The coach also said that Sahal Abdul Samad is still injured. Hence, Wangjam should be starting just behind Chhetri. In the meantime, Manvir played a good game in their last game. Hence, he should retain his position on the right flank against Uzbekistan.