New Delhi, Aug 20 - After their 0-1 loss to Lebanon in the Nehru Cup opener, the Indian football team is grappling with injuries to key defenders N.S. Manju and Anwar.

Manju has been ruled out for the entire tournament with a fractured left toe while Anwar, who bruised his thigh, is a doubtful starter for the next match against Kyrgyzstan Saturday.

Both players were injured during the opening game at the Ambedkar Stadium here.

Except Mehrajuddin Wadoo, the players who played against Lebanon skipped the optional practice session here Thursday.

Chief coach Bob Houghton said that injuries to Manju and Anwar could affect India's title defence.

He, however, hoped that Anwar could be fit in time for Saturday's must-win game against Kyrgyzstan.

'We have to get seven points from our next three matches to qualify for the finals.