World No. 101 India have already qualified for the final after winning their first two games against Mongolia (2-0) and Vanuatu (1-0) respectively. Lebanon, on the other hand, have everything to play for as the Middle East side needs at least a draw to reach the final on June 18. Notably, India will continue to be without Ishan Pandita, who missed the second game with an injury.
As far as India are concerned, coach Stimac used two different line-ups for both games with only Sunil Chhetri and Sandesh Jhingan as the only two players to feature in starting 11 of the first two group games. The first game saw Lallinzuala Chhangte and Abdul Sahal Samad find the net early with the latter also winning Hero of the match.
Skipper Chhetri starred in the next game as he scored an 81st-minute winner after Vanuatu’s physical presence, coupled with tight defensive structure, frustrated Indian attacks for the most part of the match. It was the record 86th goal for Sunil Chhetri, who also announced his wife’s pregnancy with a special goal celebration.
India have more matches coming up this month as after playing the final at the Kalinga Stadium, the Blue Tigers will head to Bengaluru to play the SAFF Championships. India will face Pakistan in the Group A opener on June 21, followed by Nepal and Kuwait.
The arrival of the Pakistan football team is still in doubt with its government yet to give them clearance to play in the tournament due to the current political scenario.
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