Talking Points: What is Subhashish Bose's best position for the national team?

The Blue Tigers' defense was certainly not upto its usual standards against the Maldives.

The Indian National team squared off with the Maldives in their second game of the 2018 SAFF Cup after winning their opening fixture against Sri Lanka. The Maldives came into the match off a goalless draw against Sri Lanka, in desperate need of a point to see them through to the semi-finals of the competition.

The Blue Tigers clinched yet another victory, winning the match 2-0. Here, we bring you the five key takeaways from India's final SAFF Cup Group B game.

Watch: India 2-0 Maldives highlights

5. Anirudh Thapa standout performer once again

The 20-year-old was given the captain’s armband for the game against the Maldives, following his admirable performance against Sri Lanka. Thapa eased into the role of a leader and led by example from the heart of midfield.

Indeed, the midfielder might have forced his way into head coach Stephen Constantine’s plans for the AFC Asian Cup 2019.

4. Subashish Bose is wasted at centre-back

Constantine opted to move the full-back to a central position in India’s defense, to accommodate Jerry Lalrinzuala at left-back. However, the 23-year-old looked uncomfortable in possession, knowing he did not have the same freedom to venture forward that he would have had in his natural position.

Bose was caught out of position several times during the game and also almost gifted the Maldives with an early goal.

3. Dropping Sumit Passi was the right move

The 23-year-old striker was given the nod in the match against Sri Lanka, but remained anonymous for most of the game. India were guilty of having missed several key chances, a fact that Constantine addressed for the game against the Maldives.

The Blue Tigers began the game with two strikers upfront, as Manvir Singh partnered Farukh Choudhary. Manvir bagged the second goal and Choudhary assisted the first.

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2. The Maldives will rue their missed chances

A shaky Indian defense meant that the Maldivians were presented with several opportunities throughout the game. However, they failed to capitalize on any of them, making India’s job relatively easy. Maldives had only two shots on target all game long, as they rarely troubled Vishal Kaith in the Indian net.

1. India will be in for a far tougher test against Pakistan

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With the victory against Maldives, India cemented their position on top of Group B and will face Pakistan in the semi-finals of the competition. The long-standing rivalry will resume in Bangladesh as the two teams come into the game on the back of impressive group stage performances.

The Blue Tigers will find Pakistan a far tougher prospect to break down than the Maldives or Sri Lanka and will have to be at their best to proceed to the final. India will play Pakistan on the 12th of September in the last four of the SAFF Cup.