India's 2019 Intercontinental Cup opener against Tajikistan did not go according to plan as Igor Stimac's men lost 2-4.
Despite taking a 2-0 lead and going into the break as the better team on the field, the Blue Tigers lost their plot and let in four goals in the second half. An inexperienced back four must shoulder the blame for the capitulation.
Stimac's options at the back were limited prior to the game and the lineup he chose cannot be faulted. First-choice centre-back Sandesh Jhingan was forced to sit out due to a niggle. Anas Edathodika, who came out of international retirement to play under Stimac, and midfield workhorse Pronay Halder were both ruled out due to fitness issues.