AFC Asian Cup 2023, India vs Uzbekistan Predicted 11: How coach Igor Stimac could line up against White Wolves

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The Blue Tigers are set to take on Uzbekistan in their second AFC Asian Cup 2023 game on January 18. After losing 0-2 to Australia in their maiden match, India will be determined to get a win in this match.

Coach Igor Stimac lined up a defensive side against the Socceroos. However, considering they are looking for a win, the coach could call up a more attacking line against the White Wolves. Hence, a lot of changes can be expected.

AFC Asian Cup 2023: India vs Uzbekistan

India Predicted XI: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu; Akash Mishra, Rahu Bheke, Sandesh Jhingan, Nikhil Poojary; Anirudh Thapa, Deepak Tangri; Naorem Mahesh Singh, Suresh Singh, Manvir Singh; Sunil Chhetri

Uzbekistan Predicted XI: Utkir Yusupov; Abdukodir Khusanov, Umarbek Eshmurodov, Rustam Ashurmatov; Aziz Turgunboev, Odiljon Khamrobekov, Otabek Shukurov, Farrukh Sayfiev; Abbosbek Fayzullaev, Jaloliddin Masharipov; Igor Sergeyev

The coach already indicated it before and reiterated the words in today's pre-match press conference. He said, “Changes will be there. Changes are coming.” Other than strategy, some changes will also be made because of injuries.

In the press conference, the coach informed that Sahal Abdul Samad is yet to recover. The Mohun Bagan player would have been an asset in the final third. However, in his absence, Suresh Singh could start again in this match.

As a result, a similar lineup to their last match could be seen another time in the final third. Lallianzuala Chhangte was expected to start unconventionally on the left flank but the player has been reported to be unfit, which opens up the opportunity for Naorem Mahesh Singh or Udanta Singh if Manvir Singh starts on the right of Suresh Singh.

Sunil Chhetri should be leading from the front. Deepak Tangri was handed his debut for the national team in their first AFC Asian Cup 2023 match. He could be starting another time in their next match.

However, Anirudh Thapa could be introduced alongside him instead of Apuia Ralte. With the intention of lining up a more attacking side, Akash Mishra should come in the left-back position. However, Mishra sustained an injury during a training session.

He could still recover and feature alongside Rahul Bheke and Sandesh Jhingan in the middle and Nikhil Poojary in the right-back position. Trusted Gurpreet Singh Sandhu should be starting under the bar.