India continue to struggle in men’s football. The Blue Tigers were held to a 1-1 draw by lower-ranked Malaysia in an international friendly at the GMC Balayogi Athletic Stadium on Monday.
The result capped a difficult year for the Blue Tigers, who ended 2024 without a single victory. They played at least five matches this year, a first since 2006.
Malaysia is ranked 133rd in the world. They came out aggressively in a counterattacking 4-3-3 formation. Malaysia almost scored within the first 15 seconds, with Sergio Aguero missing narrowly.
The visitors kept India under pressure, and in the 19th minute, a defensive error handed them the lead. A misjudged clearance by Gurpreet Singh Sandhu allowed Paulo Josue to capitalize, lofting the ball into an empty net to silence the 15,000-strong home crowd.
India, however, showed resilience. Twenty minutes later, Brandon Fernandes delivered a precise corner that Rahul Bheke headed into the net. The goal drew cheers from the home supporters.
The second half saw debutant Irfan Yadwad and his club teammate Farukh Choudhary combine well. However, neither one managed a decisive finish. Farukh’s attempt at a scissor kick and other half-chances went begging. Meanwhile, Malaysia nearly snatched the win in stoppage time when Fergus Tierney’s header struck the woodwork.
Indian coach Manolo Marquez made attacking substitutions, introducing Lallianzuala Chhangte and Farukh Choudhary, but Malaysia’s disciplined marking ensured the game ended in a draw.
“I think the result is quite fair, but we missed a few chances, which is disappointing. Overall, we’re happy with the game,” Malaysia’s head coach Pau Marti Vicente said post-match.
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu’s error leading to Malaysia’s goal reignited debates about the goalkeeper position. Marquez defended Gurpreet’s overall record. Yet, he acknowledged the need for improvement. “It’s true that in the last few games, he made mistakes, and for a goalkeeper, those often lead to goals,” he said.
Calls for Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s Vishal Kaith, the ISL Golden Glove winner, to replace Gurpreet have grown louder as India prepares for crucial Asian Cup qualifiers.
Despite the disappointing year, there were positives for the Blue Tigers. Jay Gupta, David Lalhlansanga, Jithin MS, and Irfan Yadwad gained valuable experience. The team has also likely secured a spot in Pot 1 for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, ensuring a favourable draw for the next stage.
Marquez has four months to regroup before India’s next set of matches in March. Consistency and results will be crucial as the team aims to rebuild and qualify for the continental championship.
