Three Indian players to watch as India host Uruguay in Kolkata
India will face Uruguay at the VYBK Stadium in Kolkata on Tuesday, with Khalid Jamil’s side coming off a 4-0 defeat by Brazil on Saturday and Uruguay arriving after a 4-1 win over South Korea in Seoul last Monday.
Khalid Jamil’s team showed moments of promise against Panama and Brazil, defending collectively while relying on quick counter-attacks to exploit space. The Blue Tigers’ forwards have been pressing opposition defenders to regain possession, and India drew 1-1 with Panama last month.
Abhishek Singh, 21, is highlighted after his outing against Vinicius Junior in the Brazil game, where he limited the Real Madrid forward’s chance-creating opportunities despite Vinicius getting the better of him in a couple of counter-attacks; Abhishek also caught the Brazilian offside on occasions and was quiet for most of the match. He produced a strong performance in the 1-1 draw with Panama last month and plays for Mohun Bagan. Against Uruguay, Abhishek is likely to match up with Sporting CP’s Maxi Araujo, who scored against Japan and provided an assist in the win over South Korea.
Sahal Abdul Samad was promoted to the starting XI by Khalid Jamil against Brazil after being used as a substitute in the Panama draw; he completed 2/3 dribbles and recorded an 87% pass success rate in the Brazil fixture. His dribbling and composure contributed to India showing attacking intent, though he had no goals or assists in that match. The former Kerala Blasters player is expected to start again and will be important in midfield given Uruguay’s compact defence and midfield when India have possession. If Sahal links effectively on counter-attacks with Manvir Singh and Ryan Williams, it could help India find the scoresheet.
Ryan Williams, 32, has assumed the attacking mantle from his Bengaluru FC teammate and Indian football legend – Sunil Chhetri. He scored in the 1-1 draw with Panama last month and against Brazil registered two shots on target, one of which was cleared off the goalline by a defender; he also made four recoveries and won three ground duels. Williams has been developing an attacking partnership with Manvir Singh, and a goal against Uruguay would provide confidence for the duo. India’s lack of swiftness in converting chances remains an area Williams will need to address.
The match at the VYBK Stadium in Kolkata on Tuesday is the next fixture for both teams, with India seeking a response after the 4-0 loss to Brazil and Uruguay arriving on the back of their 4-1 victory in Seoul last Monday.
