India face Afghanistan in a crucial 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Dushanbe's Central Republican Stadium, on November 14. It won't be an easy task for the Blue Tigers, considering their erratic qualification campaign. A lot of attention will be towards Igor Stimac's starting lineup.
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India are fourth in Group E, after only two points due to consecutive draws to Qatar, Bangladesh, and a defeat to Oman.
Here is Stimac's probable starting lineup for the upcoming fixture:
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Pritam Kotal, Adil Khan, Subhasish Bose, Mandar Rao Dessai, Anirudh Thapa, Pronay halder, Ashique Kuruniyan, Sahal Abdul Samad, Udanta Singh, Sunil Chhetri (4-2-3-1).
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Goalkeeper:
Sandhu is India's obvious first choice goalkeeper, considering the lack of international experience in Amrinder Singh. Dheeraj Singh is still not ready. Sandhu will need to lead his side's backline, as Sandesh Jhingan is still out due to injury.
Defenders:
Kotal deserves to start as the side's right back after some serious competition with Rahul Bheke. The veteran has been in decent form in the ongoing Indian Super League season, with ATK at top of the table. Adil will need to prove his calibre in international colors once again, with Jhingan absent, Bose could partner him in the heart of India's defence. Meanwhile, Mandar is expected to continue his new run of international matches.
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Midfielders:
Halder will need to play the role of a destroyer, due to the absence of Rowllin Borges. Thapa will need some freedom to utilize his build up play tendencies and creativity. Kuruniyan and Udanta are expected to be slotted in the flanks, with Samad as the hole behind the striker and midfield.
Forward:
Chhetri is the obvious choice to start as India's main striker. Without the legend, the Blue Tigers are unable to score goals. Also, his presence motivates his teammates, and he will be the most important asset.
