India is set to face Syria in a crucial encounter tonight in the Intercontinental Cup 2024. After a disappointing goalless draw against Mauritius in their first match, the Blue Tigers are in desperate need of a win to stay in contention for the title.
India will have to improve their build-up play in midfield and their ability to create chances from open play. They had only one shot on target against Mauritius, and against the Syrians, they will face a sterner test. Liston Colaco and Manvir Singh, in particular, had disappointing outings last week, and as India searches for goals in the post-Sunil Chhetri era, it is upon their shoulders that the burden of goal-scoring ought to fall.
Marquez could make a few changes to the lineup for this game as well, as he comes to terms with the players that he has at his disposal. India have this game and two more FIFA international windows in October and November before the all-important AFC Asian Cup qualifiers begin in March, so experimentation could be necessary to determine what their best team is before those competitive fixtures.