India vs Australia, AFC Asian Cup 2023: Three Key Battles To Watch Out For

India vs Australia, AFC Asian Cup 2023: The Indian football team is set to take on the Socceroos in its maiden game of the AFC Asian Cup 2024. The Australian football team has a flurry of talents, posing new challenges for the Indian team and calling for some interesting duels.

Starting with Sunil Chhetri, the Blue Tigers still have some world-class talents in their midst to help. Mykhel takes a look at three key battles between these players for the opening Group B match at the AFC Asian Cup 2023.

Harry Souttar vs Sunil Chhetri

Harry Souttar has been irregular this season for England's second-tier club Leicester City. He has only started twice and came off the bench twice this term. However, with his experience and height, he is still the biggest threat in their defense.

Sunil Chhetri is the 3rd active player with the most international goals in the world. His penchant for finding the perfect scoring opportunity needs no introduction. Pace and finding perfect spaces will help him in this AFC Asian Cup 2024 match.

Craig Goodwin vs Nikhil Poojary

Craig Goodwin is a regular starter for the Saudi Pro League side Al Wehda. He has scored only once since late October for his club. However, with Australia, he's assisted 4 times in their last 3 matches. He will be a force to reckon with on the left.

Nikhil Poojary is a right-back with discipline and tactical defensive knowledge. He is also an aggressive attack-minded fullback with good pace and dribbling ability. Hence, he could neutralise Goodwin and make trouble in the final third.

Mitchel Duke vs Sandesh Jhingan

Mitchel Duke is a no-brainer starter for the Socceroos in the final third. Duke has been out of the season since mid-November. Yet, he has been detrimental and scored 3 times in the last 3 matches for Australia.

Sandesh Jhingan is aggressive in defense and will lead the backline. Without Anwar Ali by his side, Jhingan will have a tougher time. However, he will still have to stop Duke's late runs in the box. Especially considering the Australian is a danger with both feet in the box.