India begins their AFC Asian Cup journey against Thailand in Abu Dhabi. South Asian giants are expected to give some tough time to the Indian football side.
Sunil Chhetri led team India will take the field with huge expectations as India hope to register their first ever victory in Asian cup over 50 years. The Indian side has shown some impressive performances against like of China and Jordan. The Blue Tigers are expected to play fast and counter-attacking football.
Thailand’s side had a disappointing exit at the hands of Malaysia in AFF Championship semi-final last month. Rajevac’s side is known for safety first approach and expected to keep a lot of possession in the game. The 3 players from the J1 league will be the key to Thailand’s gameplan.
Probable Line up:
India:
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK); Narayan Das, Anas Edathodika, Sandesh Jhingan, Pritam Kotal; Halicharan Narzary, Pronay Halder, Anirudh Thapa, Udanta Singh; Sunil Chhetri, Jeje Lalpekhlua.
Thailand:
Chatchai Budprom (GK); Philip Roller, Pansa Hemviboon, Chalermpong Kerdkaew, Tristan Do; Thitipan Puangchan, Tanaboon Kesarat; Sumanya Purisai, Pokkhao Anan, Adisak Kraisorn; Supachai Jaided.
My Prediction XI:
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (GK); Pansa Hemviboon, Chalermpong Kerdkaew, Narayan Das, Sandesh Jhingan; Thitipan Puangchan, Pronay Halder, Tanaboon Kesarat; Sunil Chhetri, Jeje Lalpekhlua.
My Prediction:
The stats are not on Indian side but recent performances give a glimmer of hope.
The defensive play gives Thailand the look of underdogs coming into this tie.
