India have been grouped with Australia, Uzbekistan, and Syria in the AFC Asian Cup 2023's Group B. Their campaign kicks off against Australia on January 13, aiming to advance beyond the group stage in this continental tournament. Under Graham Arnold's leadership, Australia reached the pre-quarterfinals in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The Socceroos, guided by goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, possess substantial strength and experience, with Ryan being part of the squad that clinched the AFC Asian Cup title in 2015. Let's explore India's historical matchups against Australia.
While India have encountered Australia in memorable clashes, their head-to-head record doesn't tip in India's favour.
Here's the head-to-head record between India and Australia in football:
Matches played: 8
India wins: 2
Australia wins: 5
Draws: 1
Recent Encounters Between India And Australia:
In their most recent meeting on January 10, 2011, Australia secured a commanding 4-0 victory. Despite goals from Harry Kewell, Brett Holman, and a brace from Tim Cahill, goalkeeper Subrata Paul's exceptional performance prevented a more lopsided result. India's Sunil Chhetri forced the sole serious save from Australian goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer late in the game. This match marked India's return to the AFC Asian Cup after 27 years, concluding with losses to Bahrain (2-5) and South Korea (1-4).
Looking forward to India's journey in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 in Qatar, Indian Team Coach Igor Stimac expressed confidence that the team will leave a lasting mark in the competition. This tournament stands as a crucial milestone for the Blue Tigers, aiming to reclaim a spot among Asia's top footballing nations and set the stage for qualification in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
“Things have changed dramatically for us after we lost Ashique Kuruniyan after him it was Anwar Ali and then Jeaskson followed. Then lately, the players who were mostly the backup options for us in the middle of the park like Glans, and Rohit, they suffered certain injuries,” said Igor Stimac.
“So we are not as good as we could be at the moment. But we don’t have time to think about those who are not with us and focus on those players who are here with us and try to use the maximum given time to us in a proper way to prepare the team to bring their fitness to a higher level and then we’re going to see where we stand and what kind of approach we’re gonna have against Australia.” he added.