Who will be India’s key player at AFC Asian Cup 2023?

It could be the final appearance at the continental showpiece for a living legend of Indian football.

The Indian football team is set to play in the prestigious 2023 AFC Asian Cup which will take place from 12 January to 10 February 2024. It will be a tough challenge for Igor Stimac’s men as the level of competition cannot be higher. Having said that, it will be exciting to see the Blue Tigers battle it out against the best nations from Asia. 

There will be plenty of individuals who will play key roles for the Indian team at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup. However, one player will shoulder the bulk of expectations from passionate football fans in India. The man in question is none other than captain, leader and legend, Sunil Chhetri.

The all-time leading goalscorer for India in international football could be playing in his final AFC Asian Cup tournament. He will hope to produce more moments to savour for the fans when the ball starts rolling in Qatar.

Sunil Chhetri to lead from front at AFC Asian Cup

Sunil Chhetri’s presence in the squad benefits India on multiple levels. It goes beyond goals and assists as the talismanic captain is the driving force behind the overall performance of the Blue Tigers. His influence cannot be understated as young players look towards him for inspiration and motivation. 

Sunil Chhetri’s unwavering resolve defines India’s drive to succeed on the international stage. It is what drives every player to put his best foot forward and punch above their weight. The captain leads by example and is one of the hardest workers on the pitch. It is no wonder that Chhetri’s good form was crucial in helping India win the the Intercontinental Cup and the SAFF Championship in 2023.

Experience plays a vital role

Sunil Chhetri, at 39, is going to be the most experienced player in the Indian squad. In 2023, he scored nine goals for India, his best tally in over 12 years. Chhetri has adapted his game around his age and the loss of pace that comes with it. 

Now, he looks to drop deep, get involved in the build-up and feed the ball to pacy wingers to launch attacks. A lot of young players will be part of the Indian squad at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup. The mere presence of Chhetri in the dressing room will calm down the nerves of the players who will certainly feel the pressure.

A reliable figure

Sunil Chhetri does not waver in pressure situations. He is the man to rely on when one needs a penalty taker in a tight game. He can handle the pressure of playing in front of thousands of spectators and millions of viewers watching from home. His steely determination differentiates him from the rest of the crowd.

India will need a clinical figure up front as the Blue Tigers will likely get few opportunities to score against heavyweights like Australia and Uzebikstan in particular. With an appropriate amount of service, Chhetri possesses the potential to bag goals and score against the run of play. 

Ending on a high

The upcoming 2023 AFC Asian Cup could be Sunil Chhetri’s last. Therefore, he will hope to finish on a high and the Indian football fans will be watching every touch of his closely and savour every minute that he spends on the pitch wearing the Indian national team colours.

He scored a brilliant brace in India’s sole win during the 2019 edition, in a 4-1 victory against Thailand. At the minimum, Chhetri would like to score more than two goals for India at the forthcoming AFC Asian Cup. 

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