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Anirudh Thapa is set to replace Deepak Tangri in their second Group B match in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 on January 18, Thursday. After a tough 0-2 defeat against Australia in the tournament opener, the Indian team will aim to present themselves in a better way at the Ahmed bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan. With just two group-stage games left, India will aim to make a positive shift in the game against Uzbekistan and later against Syria.
Ahead of the Thursday clash, India coach Igor Stimac is set to make three changes in the squad. Due to the unavailability of Lallianzuala Chhangte, Naorem Mahesh Singh will be brought into the squad. In the place of defender Subhasish Prodyut Bose, Akash Mishra will find a spot in the team. Another change in the playing XI is set to see midfielder Anirudh Thapa replace Deepak Tangri, as per Rev Sportz.
Indians fans cheer for Sunil Chhetri-led squad at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium
Indian fans extended their support to the Men in Blue at the Ahmed bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan. Ahead of the clash, fans were seen singing and dancing to Indian songs as the Blue Tigers locked horns with Uzbekistan in their second Group B clash. Earlier on Wednesday, Stimac said that fans cheering for their side can play a crucial role in Thursday evening encounter.
In the pre-match press conference, he said, "We are expecting a huge number, an even bigger number now in this match.” Speaking about their first game, he had said, “It is a huge match for us. The first game was an experience for the boys, and now we face another difficult match. Uzbekistan are a very competitive side, and since they did not gain a victory in their last game, we expect them to put a lot of pressure on us.”
