“Favoritism over talent?” – Combined reactions from supporters as Igor Stimac reveals India’s squad for the AFC Asian Cup

Indian head coach Igor Stimac has introduced a 26-member squad for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup in Qatar, beginning on January 13.

Positioned in Group B, the Blue Tigers are pitted in opposition to Australia, Uzbekistan, and Syria. The squad is scheduled to reach in Doha on Saturday, December 30, for a two-week coaching camp earlier than the match begins.

Sunil Chhetri will proceed to guide the staff, and this Asian Cup may mark his closing look within the match. Stimac may also depend on the likes of Gurpreet Singh Sandu and Sandesh Jhingan to information the younger gamers previous difficult group-stage fixtures.

Sadly, three key gamers have been omitted as a consequence of accidents. Anwar Ali and Ashique Kuruniyan didn’t safe spots within the closing 50-member squad introduced earlier, whereas Jeakson Singh, who had an opportunity, can be sidelined as a consequence of harm.

Fan reactions on social media platform X have been blended. Whereas many consider Stimac made one of the best decisions given the continued harm considerations, some supporters have questioned a number of choices, with the notable one being the inclusion of Deepak Tangri over Puitea.

Tangri has had minimal recreation time with Mohun Bagan SG, whereas Puitea has been a standout performer for Odisha FC beneath Sergio Lobera.

Issues have been additionally raised concerning the absence of Ali, Jeakson Singh, and Kuruniyan, because the supporters consider that their expertise, high quality, and physicality shall be sorely missed.

With solely Tangri and Suresh Singh Wangjam because the holding midfielders, a number of supporters additionally consider that India’s midfield lacks depth on paper.

Listed below are a number of extra reactions:

India face a formidable take a look at within the AFC Asian Cup

Accidents have actually impacted the power of India’s squad, however the staff’s preparation for the Asian Cup over the previous 12 months has been overwhelmingly constructive.

The Blue Tigers went on a formidable eleven-game unbeaten streak firstly of the 12 months. Regardless of latest setbacks in opposition to Malaysia and Qatar, the squad shall be assured of their potential.

Dealing with formidable opponents in Australia, Uzbekistan, and Syria – all ranked increased than India – qualifying for the knockout rounds presents a big problem. Nevertheless, with the squad’s familiarity beneath Stimac, there’s continuity, and gamers shall be keen to offer their finest in opposition to top-tier opposition

India’s 26-member squad for the AFC Asian Cup

Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Vishal Kaith.

Defenders: Akash Mishra, Lalchungnunga, Mehtab Singh, Nikhil Poojary, Pritam Kotal, Rahul Bheke, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose.

Midfielders: Anirudh Thapa, Brandon Fernandes, Deepak Tangri, Lalengmawia Ralte, Liston Colaco, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Sahal Abdul Samad, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Udanta Singh.

Forwards: Ishan Pandita, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh, Rahul Kannoly Praveen, Sunil Chhetri, Vikram Partap Singh.