Three Key Battles that can decide India vs Lebanon Tie

These battles will likely have a major say in the outcome of the final group fixture.

The Indian men’s national team is set to take on Lebanon in their next 2023 Hero Intercontinental Cup fixture at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha on 15 June 2023. Igor Stimac’s men enter India vs Lebanon with full confidence are already in the final of the tournament after their opening two wins against Mongolia and Vanuatu by 2-0 and 1-0 scorelines respectively.

However, the upcoming group fixture holds a lot of importance. It could be a dress rehearsal for the final fixture where India is likely to clash with Lebanon for the trophy. Furthermore, there is a stipulation where if India wins both of their remaining matches, it will rank in the top 18 countries and get pot two for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, hence slightly easier opponents. 

There is all to play for, especially for the hosts on Thursday. Finishing the group on top and stepping into the final with confidence will be the aim when both teams take to the field. The following three key battles will be crucial in deciding the outcome of the game and attracting the focus of the fans in the upcoming contest:

Pritam Kotal vs Hassan Maatouk

Pritam Kotal was exceptional in his performance against Vanuatu. He made several darting runs down the right flank and delivered plenty of crosses for his teammates in the box. Furthermore, he kept the Vanuatu attackers silent and covered a lot of ground, showing incredible fitness.

He is likely to retain his place in the starting lineup. He will come up against Lebanon’s skipper Hassan Maatouk. The attacker usually positions himself on the left side of the midfield and often finds space down the flank to influence the attack. This will be an exciting battle which will see both players clashing on multiple occasions.

Sunil Chhetri vs Mehdi Khalil

Sunil Chhetri seems to be the best chance for the Indian team to find a goal. The legendary striker was on the scoresheet against Vanuatu as he managed to score the solitary goal that won the game for the Blue Tigers. He had multiple chances to score but Vanuatu’s defence was brave in keeping his attempts at bay.

In the contest against Lebanon, Sunil Chhetri is bound to receive chances to score. Lebanon’s experienced goalkeeper Mehdi Khalil will be the biggest obstacle between the BFC striker and the goal. 

Sahal Abdul Samad vs Nader Matar

Sahal Abdul Samad was sensational for India against Mongolia in the opening game of the Intercontinental Cup. He scored a fabulous goal to kickstart the campaign and provided his teammates with some beautiful intricate through balls. He made an appearance from the bench against Vanuatu and showed a willingness to create and score goals in a decent cameo.

Igor Stimac puts his faith in Samad and will likely hand him a starting place. In that case, the attacking midfielder’s clash with Nader Matar is going to be one to watch out. The Lebanese international is a strong box-to-box midfielder who was also amongst the scorers in a 3-1 opening-day win against Vanuatu.