AFC Asian Cup 2023: Resilient India go down 0-2 to Australia in opener
football team faced a challenging start in the AFC Asian Cup campaign, succumbing to a 0-2 defeat against Australia in the opening match of Group B at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan on Saturday.
Australia demonstrated dominance throughout the game, securing a comfortable victory with goals from Craig Irwine (50') and substitute Jordan Bos (73').
India's head coach Igor Stimac implemented three changes to his side following their 0-3 defeat to Qatar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier in November. Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Manvir Singh, and Deepak Tangri were handed starts, with Mohun Bagan Super Giant midfielder Tangri making his debut.
Australia initiated the first chance of the game, with full-back Aziz Behich unleashing a powerful shot from outside the box that narrowly missed the target.
Graham Arnold's side created another promising opportunity when Martin Boyle attempted a diving header from a cross, but it was easily collected by Sandhu.
In the 16th minute, India registered their first attempt as Sunil Chhetri came close to giving India the lead.
