The Indian football team, also known as the Blue Tigers, will lock horns with Bangladesh in a crucial AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers match in Shillong on Tuesday. With a spot in the marquee tournament in Saudi Arabia on the line, both teams will be aiming to secure a victory and strengthen their qualification hopes.
India’s Struggles and Recent Resurgence
India had a tough 2024, failing to win a single match throughout the year. However, their recent victory against Maldives marked a turning point, giving the squad renewed confidence under head coach Manolo Marquez. The return of legendary striker Sunil Chhetri has bolstered India’s attack, which lacked a clinical finisher in previous games.
Young talents such as Ayush Dev Chhetri, Valpuia, and Liston Colaco made a strong impression in the last match and are expected to play pivotal roles against Bangladesh. India will be eager to continue their newfound momentum and assert dominance over their South Asian rivals.
Bangladesh’s Strengths and Key Players
Bangladesh has made headlines by including their star player, Hamza Choudhury, in the squad. The Sheffield United midfielder is set to make his international debut and could prove to be a game-changer. With a disciplined defensive setup and a midfield led by Jamal Bhuyan, Bangladesh will look to exploit India’s vulnerabilities and extend their recent dominance over the Blue Tigers.
Predicted Lineups
India’s Predicted XI:
Vishal Kaith (GK); Valpuia, Rahul Bheke, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose; Suresh Singh, Apuia Ralte; Naorem Mahesh Singh, Farukh Choudhary, Liston Colaco; Sunil Chhetri.
Bangladesh’s Predicted XI:
Mitul Marma (GK); Saad Uddin, Shakil Hossain, Topu Barman, Isa Faysal; Mohammad Ridoy, Jamal Bhuyan; Mohammad Rakib Hossain, Hamza Choudhury, Shaikh Morsalin; Mohammad Ibrahim.
Match Prediction: Who Will Win?
India’s experience, combined with the return of Sunil Chhetri, gives them an edge over Bangladesh. However, Bangladesh’s disciplined approach and the inclusion of Hamza Choudhury could pose a challenge. If India capitalizes on their attacking strength and maintains defensive stability, they are likely to secure a crucial win.
Prediction: India 2-1 Bangladesh
