‘What will happen after Sunil Chhetri’ has been a question that has lingered for quite some time now, however, the day is finally here. Led by Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Indian Football Team will face Asian champions Qatar in a must-win game. As Blue Tigers enter the much more daunting transitional phase, Igor Stimac has named a formidable playing XI for the India vs Qatar game,
Igor Stimac names surprising Playing XI for India vs Qatar
With Sunil Chhetri already having played his last game during the disappointing draw against Kuwait, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu has been named the new captain. He will be assisted by the likes of Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali and Jay Gupta. Right back Nikhil Poojary has been rendered out with Achilles tendon pain.
Igor Stimac has taken some brutal decisions in the midfield dropping Sahal Abdul Samad and Anirudh Thapa from the midfield. Instead, he has opted for Brandon Fernandes, Jeakson Singh and Suresh Singh Wangjam.
So who takes Sunil Chhetri’s place in India vs Qatar?
Well, now comes the most important part, who is playing in Sunil Chhetri’s place. Despite options being available, Igor Stimac has decided to go with Rahim Ali, who has not scored a goal for a while now. Rahim is joined by Manvir Singh and Lallianzuala Chhangte on either flank. However, it remains to be seen whether any of them can turn up big now. However, India has scored only once in the last 11 games, which has in fact come from none other than Sunil Chhetri.
India Playing XI
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (C), Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali, Mehtab Singh, Jay Gupta, Manvir Singh, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Rahim Ali, Brandon Fernandes, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Lallianzuala Chhangte
