India predicted lineup for Qatar clash in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers 2026

Vikram Partap Singh will look to score for India against the Maroons.

The Blue Tigers will try to win and maintain their hopes of making it to the World Cup when they play Qatar, the Asian Cup winners, on June 11 at the Jassim Bin Hamad stadium.

They are in second place in the table with five points from five games, and winning this match will determine whether they move on to the next round of the qualifiers.As an alternative, Qatar have outperformed everyone on the field, finishing as the ultimate table topper. The Blue Tigers are back in Doha, and there’s enough suspense for an exciting match. Igor Stimac must start with his best lineup when taking on the Al Ennabi.

After an emotional farewell in Kolkata on June 6, former Indian captain Sunil Chhetri will not be playing this time. It would be intriguing to watch which Indian player will be prepared to take over the stalwart’s national duty.

India is competing to make it to the World Cup, so they will want to improve on their previous performance and go for the win.

As Igor Stimac mulls over adding a few new players to the squad, we at Khel Now will be anticipating the Indian football team’s (4-2-3-1 formation) starting lineup against Qatar.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Goalkeeper: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s crucial role under the bars is underlined as crosses enter from the opposition half. Qatar shows a good ability to take advantage of the flanks and also relies on quick counters leading to one-on-one situations.

Sandhu is a vital member of the Indian football team because of his ability to nullify threats provided by aerial delivery and his commanding presence. He is a resilient goalie.

Gurpreet’s constantly promising performance has made him Igor Stimac’s first choice again and again. He will be also entrusted with the responsibility of leading the team onto the turf from now on.

Right Back: Nikhil Poojary

Poojary’s arrival on the field provides much-needed speed and energy, giving Qatar’s wingers a serious answer to any threats they may pose. His contribution to the National team and his steady play demonstrate how important he is in stopping opponent attacks.

Poojary’s competence in defensive duties highlights his value as a defensive asset and highlights his importance in the team’s defensive strategies.

Centre Back: Anwar Ali

Anwar Ali becomes more apparent now that Sandesh Jhingan is no longer involved. Defenses have noticed Ali’s astute interceptions and skillful back-field distribution. Even though the Mohun Bagan center-back had just recovered from an injury, his outstanding efforts for India in the previous game were crucial.

Anwar Ali is expected to be a vital part of Igor Stimac’s starting lineup against Qatar; the coach will give him strict defensive responsibilities following his showing against Kuwait.

Also Read: Qatar vs India: Three key battles that could decide the 2026 World Cup Qualifier

Centre Back: Rahul Bheke

A noteworthy career achievement for Rahul Bheke was receiving his first call-up to the Indian national squad in 2019. Under Igor Stimac’s coaching, he made his debut for his country against Curacao in a friendly match.

Since then, Bheke has developed into a vital member of the Blue Tigers’ squad, displaying his abilities and strengthening the defensive line-up for the national side. His performance against Kuwait was noteworthy as well, and having him in the starting lineup against Qatar will strengthen the Indian team’s defense.

Left Back: Jay Gupta

Jay Gupta’s consistent good play for the Gaurs throughout his rookie ISL season made a lasting impression. He was a master at defense, controlling duels and displaying a relentless work ethic to recover the ball. Gupta’s offensive impact was as remarkable.

He launched attacks with deft overlapping runs from the full-back position, scoring two goals and dishing out three assists. Gupta’s exceptional play was noticeable even though they were eliminated in the semi-final by Mumbai City FC, the eventual champions. In their pivotal match against Qatar, Jay Gupta, who plays on the left flanks, will strengthen the Blue Tigers’ defensive line.

Defensive Midfielder: Jeakson Singh

It is anticipated that Jeakson Singh will regain his position in the midfield with Suresh Wangjam. Jeakson’s central park location is crucial, as noted by Igor Stimac.

His excellent ball delivery and fast interceptions bolster India’s midfield. By enabling India to utilize Jeakson as the defensive midfielder, his arrival strengthens their control over the middle third.

Also Read: Which Indian players can make an impact off the bench against Qatar?

Defensive Midfielder: Suresh Singh Wangjam

Suresh Singh Wangjam is anticipated to contribute energy, dynamism, and the ability to win balls in a box-to-box role in the midfield.

With his ability to cover territory and link up play, he is predicted to do well against Qatar. He gave a knowledgeable showing against Kuwait and bolstered the Blue Tigers’ defense.

Attacking-Midfielder: Brandon Fernandes

Brandon Fernandes, regarded as the most creative Indian player in the game, proceeded to wreak havoc with FC Goa in ISL 2023–24. Fernandes was still able to create problems for the opposition defense with his inch-perfect final passes to create opportunities in their tie against Kuwait, after coming on as a substitute.

With 60 goal opportunities last season, the 29-year-old shared the most goal-scoring opportunities of any player in the ISL. Seeing him play the withdrawal forward behind Vikram Partap Singh will be intriguing.

Left Midfielder: Liston Colaco

When Liston Colaco returned to the team to play Kuwait, he proved to be a tremendous asset. Throughout his game, he maintained control over the left flank. He also started a dangerous cross, but it was cleared before Sunil Chhetri could get to it.

Despite having a slight accuracy deficit, he made an impact with his initial touches. Liston will be seen playing a key role, especially against a squad like Qatar that depends on speed.

Right Midfielder: Lallianzuala Chhangte

Legendary sprinter Lallianzuala Chhangte plays a significant role in Team India’s flanking combination. His superb ISL performances for Mumbai serve as a testament to his abilities and form.

Because of his accurate crosses, rapid pace, and propensity to find the back of the net, Chhangte is well-suited as a right winger. Vikram Partap Singh and the other forwards in India’s lineup depend on Chhangte’s crosses to score goals in the World Cup Qualifiers against Qatar.

Striker: Vikram Partap Singh

Right now, Vikram is playing well and has a flair for scoring goals with ease. As the leading Indian goal poacher in the ISL, he has amassed an incredible total of 7 goals and 2 assists in 18 games played thus far.In addition to winning over Mumbai City supporters, Vikram’s exceptional performances have won over supporters of other teams. Opposing teams need to consider and prepare for Vikram, who is well-known for his quickness and limitless energy on the field.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.