Top three Indian players who can make an impact against Qatar in AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers

India will look to continue the momentum after winning against Bahrain.

India will face the toughest opponent in Group H, Qatar, on Saturday. The Blue Colts are flying high after their swashbuckling victory against Bahrain. India romped through in the first match, giving no chance to Bahrain to make a comeback.

Naushad Moosa’s boys showed up for the occasion, determined to announce their arrival in the tournament. It was not an ordinary 2-0 victory. For Indian fans, it was a statement performance that gave the team a blazing start in the qualifiers.

After nailing the first assignment, it is time to shift the focus to the game against the hosts, Qatar. This fixture will be more arduous on all metrics. Only the skills won’t take India to the distance, the mental fortitude would also play a huge role.

Playing against an Asian giant in alien and challenging conditions would require an extraordinary effort. However, the good news is that these young guns are capable of taking this challenge on. In this article, we will look at three Indian players who can have a game-changing impact against Qatar.

Also Read: India vs Qatar: How should Indian U23 team line up for AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers?

Muhammed Suhail

The name that is ruling the discussions around Indian Football, Muhammed Suhail, will be under the spotlight after producing a memorable performance against Bahrain. The Punjab FC youngster did not just “break the ankle” of the Bahrain defender en route goal; his one piece of skill was a statement that Indians are ready to express themselves with a ball at their feet on the biggest of stages.

Muhammed Suhail will be one of the most important factors for India in this game. His pace, dribbling, and ability to anticipate the movement of the defender will all be tested against Qatar. If the 18-year-old is on song, he has the potential to singlehandedly pave the way to victory for India.

Lalremtluanga Fanai

India were in control of the state of play against Bahrain, and this lad had an instrumental role in that. Lalremtluanga Fanai calmly conducted himself on the pitch, making it easy for other Indian players to settle as well. The Bengaluru FC midfielder acted as a shield for the Indian defense. He was the one who anticipated any attacking play from Bahrain and took the initiative to disrupt it.

Lalremtluanga Fanai also contributed to progressing the ball for India. His passing was one of the highlights of his game. The precision in passing did not allow the Bahrain players to wrest the ball, giving India the opportunity to dictate the game. Against Qatar, his presence will be crucial. Qatar will look to keep possession in the centre of the park. Players like Fanai can check the Qatari advances through the midfield.

Pramveer

Pramveer was one of the best players on the pitch for India in the opening qualifying fixture. Pramveer, along with the skipper Bikash Yumnam, made sure India kept a clean sheet. The Blue Colts did not concede too many threatening goal-scoring chances to Qatar. Pramveer’s sturdy game in defense kept the Qatar forwards at bay.

The Punjab FC centre-back was crucial in enabling India to play from the back. The composed progression of the ball started from Pramveer, who was exquisite with his passing. He kept a high line against Bahrain, which is reflective of the recovery pace that he boasts. On Saturday, India’s fate will also depend on how well they can defend, and Pramveer’s contribution will be significant.

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