India Names 23-Member Squad for World Cup Qualifier Against Qatar

Indian football head coach Igor Stimac announced a 23-member squad for the World Cup Qualifier against Qatar, excluding Subhasish Bose, Amey Ranawade, and Lalchungnunga. This will be India's first match post-Sunil Chhetri's retirement. The team needs a win against Qatar to secure a spot in the third round.

In a pivotal move, Indian football head coach Igor Stimac named the 23-member squad for the World Cup Qualifier against Qatar, excluding experienced defenders Subhasish Bose, Amey Ranawade, and Lalchungnunga. This marks India's debut match following the retirement of iconic forward Sunil Chhetri, who ended his international career after a goalless draw against Kuwait.

Jay Gupta is set for a debut as Stimac rearranges the defense, with both Bose and Ranawade benched in the previous clash against Kuwait. Lalchungnunga did not even make the squad for that match.

India, currently behind Qatar in Group A standings, must secure a victory against the formidable hosts to advance to the third round. A draw in the Afghanistan versus Kuwait match could still give India a chance to progress. The team will depart for Doha from Kolkata on Saturday evening.