We have to win all our matches: Houghton

After the 0-1 loss to Lebanon in the opening match, India not only need to win all three matches, but they will also have to keep an eye on the goal difference. At worst, they can afford to draw one game and that should, perhaps, be against favourites Syria to take their points tally to seven, assuming they beat Kyrgyzstan and Sri Lanka.

"We have a daunting task in front of us. Probably we have to win all our matches if we want to defend the title," Houghton said after the team's practice session, which was cut short by heavy rain.

The Englishman also said that India played well against Lebanon but were unlucky to lose at the Ambedkar Stadium here Wednesday.

"We created more opportunities than Lebanon. But we were unlucky to lose. Hopefully we will put up a better performance in the rest of the matches," he said.

Houghton also hoped that defender Anwar would get fit in time for the match against Kyrgyzstan, which was pushed back by a day to Sunday after Friday's match between Sri Lanka and Lebanon was called-off due to heavy rain. Lebanon will now take on Sri Lanka Saturday.

"An extra day of rest will be good. Anwar still has a sore thigh but hopefully will get fit for the match," Houghton said.

Houghton also indicated that Sunil Chettri may start against Kyrgyzstan after Sushil Singh failed to create any impact against Lebanon.