India vs Bangladesh: AFC Asian Cup Qualification H2H, Team News, Injury Updates, Probable Playing XI

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India is set to kick off their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers journey against Bangladesh on Tuesday (March 25) at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong.

Both teams find themselves in Group A, alongside Singapore and Hong Kong. With only the group winners earning a direct spot in the Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, the pressure is immense. India's head coach, Manolo Marquez, has stressed the significance of a strong start, calling this qualifier a final.

India vs Bangladesh: FIFA Ranking, H2H Records

Current FIFA Rankings:
India: 126
Bangladesh: 185

Head-to-Head Records:

India has historically dominated Bangladesh, securing 14 victories, suffering 4 defeats, and drawing 10 times in their 28 meetings. Bangladesh’s last win over India came in the 2003 SAFF Championship semi-final.

India: 14
Bangladesh: 4
Draws: 10

India vs Bangladesh: Recent Form

The Blue Tigers enter the qualifiers in high spirits after a 3-0 triumph over the Maldives in a friendly. This match saw the return of captain Sunil Chhetri, who scored his 95th international goal. Marquez lauded Chhetri’s impact, saying, "Sunil is a legend in Indian football and the top scorer this season."

Meanwhile, Bangladesh has strengthened their squad with the addition of midfielder Hamza Choudhury, who brings Premier League experience. His debut is highly anticipated, as his presence is expected to bolster Bangladesh’s midfield.

Recent Form (All Competitions, excluding Friendlies):

India: L, D, L, D, L
Bangladesh: L, L, L, L, D

India vs Bangladesh: Key Players to Watch

Sunil Chhetri, the 40-year-old forward who previously announced retirement, made a stunning comeback by scoring in India's 3-0 victory over the Maldives on March 19. His experience and leadership will be crucial in the qualifiers. In addition, young talents like Liston Colaco and Ayush Dev Chhetri have recently delivered impressive performances, strengthening the team.

Hamza Choudhury, the 27-year-old midfielder currently on loan at Sheffield United from Leicester City, has switched his international allegiance from England to Bangladesh. His presence adds European football expertise to Bangladesh’s midfield.

India vs Bangladesh Injury Updates

India will be without Brandon Fernandes, who picked up an injury in the recent Maldives match. However, Udanta Singh and Macarton Louis Jackson have rejoined the squad for this fixture. On the other hand, Bangladesh will have a fully fit squad available for selection.

India vs Bangladesh Predicted Playing XI

India (4-2-3-1): Vishal Kaith; Rahul Bheke, Valpuia, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose; Lalengmawia Ralte, Ayush Chhetri; Farukh Choudhary, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Liston Colaco; Sunil Chhetri

Bangladesh (4-3-3): Mitul Marma; Saad Uddin, Shakil Hossain, Topu Barman, Isa Faysal; Hamza Choudhury, Mohammad Ridoy, Jamal Bhuyan; Al-Amin, Rakib Hossain, Shahriar Emon

India vs Bangladesh: Scoreline Prediction

Given India’s historical dominance in this fixture, the Blue Tigers enter as favourites. The return of Sunil Chhetri will further boost their confidence. However, with Hamza Choudhury strengthening Bangladesh, India can expect a challenging encounter.

Predicted Scoreline: India 2-1 Bangladesh