FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Afghanistan vs India Live Updates

Published at :March 21, 2024 at 10:00 PM

Modified at :March 21, 2024 at 11:50 PM

11:30 PM: Hello everyone and welcome to Khel Now’s LIVE COVERAGE of the Afghanistan vs India match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. The kick-off is just one hour away! I am your host Preethi and will keep you company through what promises a fascinating night of football. Please wait for 30 Seconds for the Live blog to load.

FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Afghanistan vs India – Build-up

The Indian national football team will lock horns against Afghanistan with a hope to turn things around after a disastrous start to 2024. The Blue Tigers will first play an away game against the Lions of Khorasan before playing at home in Guwahati on March 26 in the Round 2 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2027 AFC Asian Cup joint qualifiers.

India started their campaign with a statement 0-1 victory against Kuwait away from home before losing 0-3 to Asian champions Qatar in November 2023. They are currently ranked third on the table behind Qatar and Kuwait with three points to their name.

Balal Arezou is one of Afghanistan’s most experienced campaigners. The striker has scored nine goals in 28 appearances and is Afghanistan’s second highest goal-scorer. He is known for his ball distribution and aerial abilities. The 35-year-old is excellent in winning ground and aerial duels while equally contributing in defense. He will shoulder the goal-scoring responsibilities for his side against India.

FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Afghanistan vs India Live Updates Sunil Chhetri — India will hope for Sunil Chhetri to grab some goals. (Courtesy: AIFF)

Sunil Chhetri will lead India’s line against Afghanistan. The Indian skipper has an impressive track record against the Lions of Khorasam and will look to add to it. He has been going through a goal-drought, so are India, and this upcoming game is the perfect opportunity for Chhetri to outline once again, why he is India’s main man up front.

Afghanistan have a fully fit squad. India will miss the likes of Sahal Abdul Samad due to an injury.

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