Asian Games Football: India face Bangladesh in 'do or die' clash

India lost their Asian Games opener to China.

The Indian football men’s team began their 2023 Asian Games campaign with a disappointing defeat against hosts China. The home side scored first before Rahul KP equalised for the Blue Tigers only for China to score four more goals in the second half.

Now India’s focus shifts to the do-or-die clash against their neighbours Bangladesh. The Blue Tigers will be keen to put the match against China behind their back and perform well against Bangladesh.

On that note, let us take a look at the preview.

The Stakes

India

The Blue Tigers come into the game on the back of a highly demoralising defeat to hosts China. India were thrashed 5-1 by the home side and looked helpless. The players did not look match-fit at all, thanks to their hectic travel schedule.

But, now it’s time to focus on the game against Bangladesh. India will have to go all out and fire all cylinders because the stakes are very high. Igor Stimac's side just cannot afford to make a single mistake because the consequence of it can be very hefty.

Bangladesh

The Bengal Tigers are in a much similar position like India after failing to secure a point in their opening day clash against Myanmar. Bangladesh were handed a narrow 1-0 defeat in the first game and will want to come back strong against India.

The stakes are very high for them as well and they will surely come out all guns blazing. They know what they have to do and they will do everything in their power to get the better of India.

Injury & Team News

Not all is well in the Blue Tigers’ camp. Sumit Rathi, Lalchungnunga and Bryce Miranda are down with cramps which puts their participation into question. Defender Sana Singh has reached Hangzhou, but Gurkirat Singh has missed his connecting flight.

For Bangladesh, all the players are available for selection.

Head-to-Head

Both sides have played each other 31 times in total. India have a clear lead having won 16 games. 13 matches have ended in a draw while Bangladesh have won twice.

Predicted Line-ups

India (4-2-3-1)

Gurmeet Singh (GK), Abdul Rabeeh, Chinglensana Singh, Sandesh Jhingan, Sumit Rathi, Amarjit Singh, Ayush Chhetri, Rahul KP, Sunil Chhetri, Vincy Baretto, Rahim Ali

Bangladesh (4-3-1-2)

Mitul Marma (GK), Rahmat Mia, Hasan Murad, Shakil Hossain, Isa Faysal, Mojibur Rahman, Mohammad Ridoy, Papon SIngh, Robiul Hasan, Sumon Reza, M Fahim

Players to watch

Gurmeet Singh (India)

The young goalkeeper was one of the few shining stars on a tough evening against China. Gurmeet played his heart out and defended India like a wall. He faced more than 10 shots on target and managed to save most of them.

Moreover, he also saved a crucial penalty early in the first half and denied China a goal. He is a young lad and will only grow from here on. He will have a key role to play if India are to take all three points.

Rahmat Mia (Bangladesh)

Skipper Rahmat Mia is one of Bangladesh’s most experienced defenders and knows a lot about India having played against them on multiple occasions. He is a versatile defender and can operate at different positions as and when required.

He was one of the players who put in a good shift in Bangladesh's opening game against Myanmar. He will have a huge task to neutralise the danger from the Indian frontline and also keep a check on their forwards.

Did You Know?

• India boast a better head-to-head record against Bangladesh
• Sunil Chhetri has scored six goals against Bangladesh
• Both sides lost their opening game in the Hangzhou Asian Games

Telecast

The Asian Games clash between India and Bangladesh will take place on Thursday, September 21 at the Xiaoshan Sports Center Stadium, Hangzhou with a 1:30 PM IST kick-off. The match will be shown on the Sony Sports Network and streamed live on SonyLIV.