AFC Asian Cup, IND vs AUS: The Indian football teams campaign for AFC Asian Cup campaign faced a setback as Australia defeated Igor Stimacs-men on Saturday, in the opening match of Group B at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan.Australia maintained dominance since the beginning of the game and secured a comfortable victory with goals from Craig Irwine (50) and substitute Jordan Bos (73).Indian Football TeamThree changes in the squadIndias head coach Igor Stimac made three changes to the side following their 0-3 defeat to Qatar in the FIFA World Cup Qualifier 2026 in November. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Manvir Singh, and Deepak Tangri were included in the starting XI, with Mohun Bagan Super Giant midfielder Tangri making his debut for the country.Australia started the first chance in the game with Aziz Behichs powerful shot from outside the box that narrowly missed the target.Australias dominant displayGraham Arnolds side created another opportunity when Martin Boyle attempted a diving header from a cross, but it was saved by Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.Blood and sweat. We gave it our all. But it wasnt enough to get something from our #AsianCup2023 opener.On to the next one in five days time 🇮🇳#AUSvIND ⚔️ #BlueTigers 🐯 #IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/Cptx158KNp— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) January 13, 2024India registered their first attempt as veteran payer, Sunil Chhetri came close to giving India the lead, in the 16th minute. Nikhil Poojary deflected a cross into the box, and Chhetris header narrowly went wide of the post.Australia launched waves of attacks, but Indias defense led by Sandesh Jhingan and Rahul Bheke managed to maintain the defence line as Australia launched waves of attacks.The hard work in defense was destroyed in the second half when a lapse in concentration led to Sandhu miscuing a clearance from a corner, allowing Irwine to strike a fierce shot which gave them a lead.Kangaroos continued to dominate ball possession, and India failed to create opportunities. The Australian substitute played a crucial role in the second goal. Injury concerns for IndiaIndia is entering the tournament with some major injuries as defender Anwar Ali, midfielder Jeakson Singh, and winger Ashique Kuruniyan will miss the tournament due to injuries. Sahal Abdul Samad will also miss the opener as he hasnt recovered from his ankle injury.
