Australia v India AFC Asian Cup Preview & Tips | January 13, 2024

The Socceroos kick off their AFC Asian Cup campaign on Saturday with their first group stage match against India.

Returning to Qatar for the first time since their Round of 16 loss to Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, the Socceroos will be hopeful of their chances in this tournament. Australia is now ranked 25th in the world, fourth out of the Asian countries.

Goalkeeper Mat Ryan will lead the side throughout the tournament, with English Championship pair Harry Souttar and Cameron Burgess the expected centre-back pairing. 28-year-old full-back Gethin Jones made his Australian debut in a warm-up match with Bahrain and is expected to start alongside veteran Aziz Behich on the flanks. Jackson Irvine, Conor Metcalfe and Keanu Baccus have been midfield regulars throughout 2023 and are expected to play major roles in this tournament. After his heroics at the World Cup, Mitch Duke will start up top, whilst Craig Goodwin and Martin Boyle are predicted on the wings.

India enters this tournament as major underdogs, shown by their current world ranking of 102nd in the world. They were winners of the South Asian Football Federation Championship back in July and also secured an excellent away win in Kuwait during their World Cup Qualifier in November. India are led by Sunil Chhetri, a 39-year-old striker who is the all-time leading scorer with 93 goals.

Socceroos vs India top tips & odds

Australia v India soccer betting predictions

Coming in as clear favourites at $1.04, the Socceroos will be looking to gain momentum from this clash to take into the rest of the tournament. However, as they show little value, look to take the Aussies with the handicap of -2 at $1.60 with top soccer betting sites.

Starting up top, Mitch Duke is expected to have plenty of opportunities going forward. He scored in the warm-up match last week and has had a solid season in Japan with 10 goals from 34 matches. Known for his aerial prowess, expect plenty of crosses to be swung in his direction.

Another player known for his aerial prowess; centre-back Harry Souttar is a constant threat with his 200cm frame. With 10 goals in 22 games for Australia, Souttar has been particularly effective against sides who struggle to match his physicality. At $5.50 with top online betting sites, Souttar as an anytime goal scorer is an excellent value bet.

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