India predicted lineup for Malaysia clash

The Blue Tigers will be looking to finally end their winless run in 2024.

Looking ahead to the Malaysia game, the Indian national football team under head coach Manolo Marquez will be gearing up for an intense encounter. The Spaniard will be fine-tuning his strategies and personnel for the fixture. While the recent performances have been a mixed bag, India will be eager to record their first win in 2024.

The upcoming match against Malaysia offers Marquez another opportunity to answer his critics, who doubt his credentials by delivering a win. The Spaniard will be looking to field a dynamic lineup packed with experience, youth, and versatility.

Here’s a deep dive into India’s probable lineup and the roles the players are expected to play.

Formation: 3-4-3

The Indian head coach might deploy a 3-5-2 formation, leveraging the dual striking force of Farukh Choudhry and Lallianzuala Chhangte, supported by a robust midfield and a well-organized defensive trio.

Goalkeeper: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

India’s trusted guardian between the posts, the 32-year-old is expected to lead the team once again. With over 140 international caps, Sandhu’s experience, shot-stopping abilities, and commanding presence make him an indispensable part of Marquez’s side.

The Bengaluru FC goalkeeper has kept five clean sheets in eight games. The Indian No.1 will be looking forward to the challenge posed by Malaysian attackers.

Right Centre Back: Rahul Bheke

Bheke adds a lot of versatility and defensive solidity to Marquez and his team. With his qualities, the team can seamlessly transition between a central defensive role and a wide position if needed.

The Bengaluru FC defender poses an uncanny ability to intercept and distribute effectively. All these qualities make him a vital cog in the machinery against a spirited Malaysia squad.

Centre Back: Sandesh Jhingan

The 31-year-old’s inclusion signals the faith Marquez has in Jhingan even though he is returning after recovering from a knee injury.

He is the cornerstone of India’s defence and his tenacity against opponents makes him an invaluable member of the squad. Jhingan’s physicality, leadership, and knack for making timely tackles ensure stability at the back.

Left Centre Back: Anwar Ali

The East Bengal FC defender completes the solid backbone and trifecta of India’s defense. Known for his no-nonsense defending and ability to read the game, Ali has had a mixed season on the club level.

However, Anwar’s adaptability and composure will be vital for Marquez looking to nullify Malaysia’s counterattacking threats.

Right Wing Back: Asish Rai

The Mohun Bagan Super Giant defender has been a constant performer for the club this season. Known for his speed and defensive work rate, Rai has been indispensable for Marquez. His tireless running and attacking runs will help counter any forward pressure from Malaysia.

Left Wing Back: Naorem Roshan Singh

The Bengaluru FC left-back will complement and provide India the width on the left. While Roshan’s overlapping runs and precise deliveries will be important, his support on defense will be crucial to avoid any quick counters.

Defensive Midfielder: Apuia

The 24-year-old central midfielder will be a crucial player for Marquez in the absence of Anirudh Thapa and will partner Suresh. Apuia’s playmaking abilities and his control of the tempo of the game will dictate the result of the Malaysia match. But his tandem with Suresh will provide much-needed balance and composure to his side.

Defensive Midfielder: Suresh Singh Wangjham

The Bengaluru FC midfielder will be the anchor that ensures India wins the midfield battle. His defensive prowess and tireless work ethic are gonna be an asset for Marquez and his men who would be working towards creating a balanced partnership.

His tackling and ensuring India benefits from a high turnover of possession will be crucial against the Harimau Malaya.

Right Winger: Brandon Fernandes

While Fernandes has been often deployed as an attacking midfielder, he has shown positional versatility before for India. In the attacking half of the pitch, he will be shouldering the responsibility of unlocking Malaysia’s defence. His vision and ability to pick out key passes will be crucial in creating goal-scoring opportunities for his fellow attackers.

Early crosses and cutbacks are gonna be things that Fernandes will rely on to keep the Malaysian defense pinned back in their 6-yard box.

Centre Forward: Farukh Choudhary

Choudhary is gonna be expected to act as the target man for the Blue Tigers. The striker will be using his strength and aerial ability to hold up play and bring his fellow wingers into the attack. Having already rescued India against Vietnam with a vital goal, Marquez is sure to rely on him to find the back of the net again.

Left Winger: Lallianzuala Chhangte

India’s in-form winger-turned-forward will play off his attacking partners and exploit his pace, dribbling skills, and clinical finishing to trouble Malaysia’s backline. His recent exploits for Mumbai City FC in the ISL make him a key player in Marquez’s plans ahead of the international friendly.

With this lineup, Marquez is likely to focus on maintaining defensive solidity while capitalizing on quick transitions and wide play. The flexibility of a 3-4-3 formation might do wonders for the Spaniard, who will be hoping for a united team performance where each player covers empty spaces.

The match against Malaysia will test India’s adaptability, but this lineup, rich in experience and potential, has the tools to deliver a strong performance and restore confidence in Indian football fans.

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