Begin typing your search above and press return to search.

Favourite India take on Laos today

By Sports reporter

GUWAHATI, June 6 - With a 1-0 lead in the first leg of the play- off, India are in an advantageous position in the second leg of the 2019 AFC Asian Cup encounter against Laos slated for tomorrow at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Sarusajai here.

Ranked 163rd in the FIFA list India was distinctly the dominating side in the June 2 away match in Vientiane although the visiting team had to rely on Jeje Lalpekhlua�s lone goal.

Here the Indian team will definitely enjoy the home ground advantage and will try for a big victory tomorrow.

Last week�s away match win may be counted as a relief for the Indian coach Stephen Constantine, whose future is under the scanner after a series of poor shows by the Indian team under his coaching in the international events.

Interestingly, India won just one match out of eight they played in the 2019 Asian Cup and 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and as a result they have to feature in these play-off encounters. If India can win this play-off they will go through to take part in the next round of the Asian Cup Qualifiers for which schedule is yet to be announced.

Facing injury problem, the Indian team has to rely on few players like Jeje, skipper Sunil Chhetry, Holicharan Narzary among others. Jeje and Holicharan have to play a major role for the team as they are quite accustomed with the environment of this region of the country.

The 174th ranked Laos team was not in a sound form during their home match. If they remain in the same shape they have to face a tough time tomorrow against the young Indian brigade. However, the head coach of the visiting team Valakone Phomphakdy is determined to give India a tough test.

The turn out of crowd is becoming a cause of concern for the organisers. The Sarusajai stadium was wearing a deserted look during the Mohun Bagan�s Asia Cup and Federation Cup matches which were played during the last couple of months.

Tomorrow also the organisers can�t expect a sold out crowd considering selling of tickets till this afternoon.

The match will kick

start at 7 pm.

Next Story