Going by the Croatian coach's strategy to make wholesome chances in all three games so far, against Mongolia, Vanuatu and Lebanon, he could spring a surprise in the title clash as well

With the stakes too high, it's unlikely he would veer too far away from his time-tested combination, with India on the cusp of regaining the Intercontinental Cup after lifting it in the inaugural edition in 2018, when they beat Kenya 2-0 in Mumbai

After the opening game against Mongolia, which India won 2-0, Stimac made nine changes to the line-up which defeated Vanuatu riding on Chhetri's goal. He made 10 more changes against Lebanon, which included benching star goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Chhetri in a goalless draw

Defender Sandesh Jhingan, who wore the captain's armband in Chhetri's absence against Lebanon, has been the only constant in all three games, indicating the kind of faith Stimac has in the tall player and the India backline.

The one change that caught everyone by surprise was Chhetri's name missing from the starting lineup against Lebanon. But Ashique Kuruniyan, who had to be deployed at the centre-forward position in the star striker's absence, managed to impress Stimac. So did Udanta Singh, who was shifted to the left wing.