Three players Igor Stimac can bring into the starting XI against Afghanistan in 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Igor Stimac desperately needs to bring a better strategy and use the home advantage to grab a victory against Afghanistan.

After a disappointing goalless draw at Damac Stadium in Abha during the second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, the Blue Tigers led by Igor Stimac are now set to face Afghanistan once again, at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Guwahati in the return leg.

This upcoming match holds immense importance to the hosts as it could determine their fate in progressing to the third round of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. The outcome of this pivotal game is crucial for India’s aspirations in the tournament, keeping in mind Kuwait and Qatar are strong contenders to qualify.

Additionally, India’s head coach Igor Stimac is facing heightened scrutiny following the team’s failure to secure a positive result. Although Sunil Chhetri and his company were good in the defense in the previous game, they lacked quality in the midfield as well as finishing. Therefore, Stimac should implement some changes and bring in some new faces in the starting XI to improve India’s performance.

Let’s look at three players that Stimac can bring in to get positive results.

3. Anirudh Thapa

The prolific midfielder from Mohun Bagan had a good season with the Mariners controlling their midfield. Thapa has also performed well in National team colors previously. His holding ability along with his vision and passing makes him a standout performer in the middle of the park.

Thapa was benched by Stimac in the previous encounter. Thapa has created nine crucial chances and won 27 duels for Mohun Bagan in the current ISL. Bringing in Thapa would surely add more stability to the midfield which is required to be dominated by the Blues.   

2. Naorem Mahesh Singh

Naorem has been a standout performer for his club in the ongoing ISL. He has scored six crucial goals for the Red and Gold Brigade along with nine key assists. With his pace and trickery, Naorem is a clinical option in the left wing. He can deliver crosses as well as take shots after cutting in which increases the goal-scoring option in the upfront. Naorem was brought in the second half in the previous encounter and he created some impact in the little time he got. Igor Stimac can bring Mahesh in the starting XI in the upcoming clash.

1. Brandon Fernandes

The best attacking option Igor can have on his side is bringing Brandon Fernandes. The attacking central midfielder has top skills to score and assist goals. Brandon with his ball-playing abilities as well as set-piece movements is a key asset for India. With two assists and 40 chances created Brandon has performed well in the ISL this season. The combination of Brandon Vikram Partap and Mahesh can form a deadly trio to earn three points for the Blue Tigers.

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