India seek first win in SAFF Championships
After a lacklustre show in their campaign opener, hosts India would need to address their finishing woes if they desire to register their first win in the tournament when they take on Bhutan in a league match of the SAFF Championships in New Delhi on Monday.
After a lacklustre show in their campaign opener, hosts India would need to address their finishing woes if they desire their first win in the tournament when they take on Bhutan in a league match of the SAFF Championships in New Delhi on Monday.
Defending champions India were held to a 1-1 draw by minnows Afghanistan in their opening match on Saturday and that has dented their reputation as the title favourites.
To be fair to Savio Medeira's men, they created more chances than their opponents but the profligate Indian forwards failed to convert the opportunities that came their way.
India would be desperate for a win against Bhutan as any slip up on Monday could cost them dear as they take on Sri Lanka in their last league match on December 7.
But to register a victory, the home team will have to improve their performance by leaps and bounds.
An off-colour Clifford Miranda on Saturday wasted chances galore against Afghanistan and it might prompt Medeira to start with the nippy Anthony Pereira or Lalrindika Ralte on the left flank.
Against Afghanistan, India failed use the flanks properly. To compound their problems, veteran right winger Steven Dias was also not at his usual best.
Not many changes are expected for Monday's match except for left back Samir Naik, who has twisted his ankle. However, he is not yet ruled out for the match.