The Indian football team is set to return to the field for the first time in three months, with their first match being against Mauritius in the Intercontinental Cup 2024. Despite a disappointing year so far, the appointment of Spanish manager Manolo Marquez has generated a lot of buzz as the team hopes to turn their luck around. With star striker Sunil Chhetri absent, all eyes will be on Mumbai City's Chhangte who has proven to be a threat with his pace and skills. For Mauritius, defender Lindsay Rose will have to step up to contain India's attack.
India vs. Mauritius: Intercontinental Cup 2024 Preview
After a three-month hiatus, the Indian football team is set to return to action in the Intercontinental Cup 2024, facing Mauritius in their opening match. The tournament will be a crucial test for the Blue Tigers under their new manager, Manolo Marquez.
Background:
The Intercontinental Cup is an international football tournament organized by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). It was first played in 2018 as the Hero Tri-Nation Series, featuring India, Kenya, and Chinese Taipei. The competition has since been renamed the Intercontinental Cup.
India has participated in all three editions of the tournament, winning the inaugural edition in 2018. However, they finished runners-up in 2019 and failed to qualify for the semifinals in 2022.
Team News:
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Match Preview:
India will be the favorites in this match, despite their recent struggles. Under Marquez, the Blue Tigers have shown signs of improvement in their friendlies against Cambodia and Oman.
Mauritius will be no pushovers, however. They have a strong defensive record and will look to frustrate India by sitting deep and hitting them on the counterattack.
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