India dealt a huge blow, Sunil Chhetri to miss Qatar game

The skipper has failed to train in the last three days.

The Indian football team has been dealt a massive blow ahead of their crucial second 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2023 Asian Championships joint qualifier against Qatar in Doha on Tuesday. It has surfaced and confirmed by the gaffer, Igor Stimac, that the captain of the side, Sunil Chhetri is unlikely to take part in the upcoming game due to an illness which has kept him away from training with the rest of the squad since their arrival in the gulf country. 

Speaking to the media ahead of the fixture, the Croatian tactician said that, "We have Sunil with a high fever for the last three days, so he is really doubtful. Then there are two or three players who are exhausted. We will have to take tough decision.” 

Losing Chhetri ahead of this fixture will certainly be a setback as the 35-year-old remains India’s best bet for a goal. The Bengaluru FC player scored his 72nd goal on the international stage when he opened the scoring against Oman and his absence may dampen the morale of the team.

It is very evident that the players are finding it tough to cope up with the high intensity that the gaffer intends to play with. Despite showing positive signs with this new yet physically demanding approach, it can be expected that the players will take time to adjust to the fitness levels expected to execute their plans.

Watch: Qatar Vs India Tactical Preview

It is hard to tell how India will line up at this moment due to the injury and fatigue levels, but fringe players like Manvir Singh or Balwant Singh must use this opportunity to stamp their authority and make a good case for a regular place in the starting lineup. 

The Blue Tigers lost their opening tie of the qualifying campaign to Oman on 5th September. The defeat was particularly deflating because India dominated the first half and went into the break with a lead. However, they ended up losing 1-2 after having lost their fitness levels and focus in the dying stages of the game.

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Qatar are a different challenge to Oman, as they are the reigning Asian champions and most recently decimated Afghanistan in their opening tie with a scoreline of 6-0. They are massive favourites to top the group standings and could humble India unless the Blue Tigers play out of their socks.

Speaking in that context, the 52-year-old said that, “We are expecting a tough encounter as Qatar are the Asian champions, but we have to stick to our plans, stay compact and play as a team,”