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Key Points

India's national football team has strategically trimmed its squad to 25 players for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong. Head coach Manolo Marquez is focusing on maintaining team momentum after a challenging 2-0 defeat in the Thailand friendly. The squad features experienced players like Sunil Chhetri and a mix of young talents ready to prove themselves. With all teams currently tied on points, this match represents a critical opportunity for India to advance in the tournament.

Key Points: Manolo Marquez Trims India Squad for Hong Kong AFC Qualifier

  • India faces high-stakes match after goalless Bangladesh draw
  • Squad reduced from 28 to 25 players
  • Sunil Chhetri leads attacking lineup
  • Crucial qualifier tests team's resilience
2 min read

India name squad for AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong

India's national team prepares for crucial AFC Asian Cup qualifier with 25-player squad after Thailand friendly defeat

"Every match is a battle, and we are ready - Manolo Marquez (Implied)"

New Delhi, June 5

Indian men's national team head coach Manolo Marquez has trimmed his squad to 25 players for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong on June 10.

Initially, the Indian team travelled to Thailand with a 28-member squad for a FIFA international friendly, which ended in a 2-0 defeat on Wednesday.

Goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, along with defenders Mehtab Singh and Subhasish Bose, have been released from the squad and will return to India directly from Thailand. The remaining 25 players have now moved to Bangkok to continue preparations for the crucial clash against Hong Kong.

India opened their qualifying campaign with a goalless draw against Bangladesh in March. Following the recent loss to Thailand, the pressure is mounting ahead of the vital away fixture. All four teams in India's group are currently tied with one point each after the first round of matches.

In a thrilling match on Wednesday, India showed flashes of brilliance and grit, only to be undone by moments of precision from their opponents. Goals from Benjamin Davis (8') in the first half and Poramet Arjvilai (59') in the second were enough to seal the win for Thailand, while India, though spirited and creative at times, were left ruing missed opportunities and costly defensive lapses.

India's 25-member squad for Hong Kong game:

Goalkeepers: Vishal Kaith, Gurmeet Singh Chahal, Amrinder Singh.

Defenders: Naorem Roshan Singh, Rahul Bheke, Konsham Chinglensana Singh, Anwar Ali, Thangjam Boris Singh, Sandesh Jhingan, Asish Rai, Tekcham Abhishek Singh.

Midfielders: Suresh Singh Wangjam, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Ayush Dev Chhetri, Udanta Singh Kumam, Lalengmawia Ralte, Liston Colaco, Ashique Kuruniyan, Brandon Fernandes, Nikhil Prabhu.

Forwards: Sunil Chhetri, Edmund Lalrindika, Manvir Singh, Suhail Ahmad Bhat, Lallianzuala Chhangte.

Head coach: Manolo Marquez

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Tough loss against Thailand but we showed promise! Hope the boys bounce back stronger against Hong Kong 🇮🇳⚽ The squad looks balanced but we desperately need better finishing. Chhetri can't do it alone every time!
P
Priya M.
Why drop Subhasish Bose? He's been solid in ISL this season. Coach Marquez needs to explain these decisions better. The defense looked shaky against Thailand and we're making changes before a crucial match? 🤔
A
Amit S.
Good to see young talents like Naorem Mahesh getting chances! Our future is bright if we keep developing players. But we need results NOW - can't afford another draw against Hong Kong. Time to show some killer instinct!
S
Sneha R.
The Thailand match was painful to watch - so many wasted chances! Our midfielders need to take more responsibility instead of always looking for Chhetri. Hope Marquez works on finishing drills before Hong Kong game.
V
Vikram J.
Let's not panic after one loss. Thailand is ranked higher and we held our own for long periods. The boys just need to convert chances. Hong Kong match is must-win though - no excuses! #BlueTigers 🐯
N
Neha P.
Why is our football team always 'showing promise' but not winning? 😅 We've been hearing this for years. Need proper grassroots development and better coaching. Still, all the best to the team - bring home the win!

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