Sunil Chhetri has not trained in Doha and is doubtful following an injury scare.
Indian Skipper Sunil Chhetri is doubtful to take part in the second World Cup qualifier game against Qatar on Tuesday.
The striker, who found the back of the net against Oman, is yet to take part in a training session in Doha. Although nothing has been reported as of now, the reliable Goal have divulged that Chhetri could watch his side take on the Middle East side from the sidelines.
Needless to say that his absence would cause turmoil in the frontline as Chhetri has been in fine fettle lately. In the last outing against Oman in Guwahati, the Bengaluru FC striker found the back of the net through a set piece situation. He is India’s main source of goals and his absence could stir a lot of problems for the Blue Tigers.
If the Skipper fails to turn up for a training session before the kick-off on Tuesday, the Croat will not be prepared to risk him should he not be cent per cent fit for the second group stage game. Balwant Singh and Manvir Singh are the backup strikers available at stake for Igor Stimac. They must be prepared to grasp this chance as the team is too reliant on their number 11.
The Blue Tigers were the best team for a majority of the game against Oman, but faltered in the last ten minutes. The visitors scored twice through Al Mandhar to wipe out Chhetri’s first goal and take the lead, plucking three points from the hands of India.
On the other hand, Qatar caused a shockwave to the rest of the group with a 6-0 victory over Afghanistan in the first game. They were the superior side from the minute one, scoring thrice within 13 minutes. Further, they went on to add another one before the half-time whistle and two later.
India are currently fourth in the group with Bangladesh remaining untested. The table-toppers are rewarded with next round’s progression, while four best second-placed side will enter the third round of the World Cup Qualifiers.
