The Indian national football team is gearing up to host Malaysia in a FIFA international friendly match on Monday, November 18. The game will take place at the G. M. C. Balayogi Athletic Stadium. The game is critical preparation for India’s third round of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, scheduled for March next year.
India vs Malaysia: A Historic Rivalry
The head-to-head record between the two teams tilts in Malaysia’s favour. Out of 25 matches, Malaysia has emerged victorious 11 times, while India has won seven, with the remaining seven games ending in draws. In their last encounter during the Merdeka Tournament 2023, Malaysia secured a 4-2 win in Kuala Lumpur.
India, ranked 125th in FIFA’s men’s rankings, will aim to end their winless run under new head coach Manolo Marquez against Malaysia, currently ranked 133rd.
Team Updates and Preparations
The Blue Tigers began their training camp in Hyderabad on November 11. Despite missing key players like midfielder Anirudh Thapa and forward Vikram Pratap Singh due to injuries, India’s squad is bolstered by the return of star defender Sandesh Jhingan from a knee injury.
Odisha FC midfielder Thoiba Singh has replaced Thapa, while Chennaiyin FC attacker Irfan Yadwad has received his first national call-up.
Marquez has been refining India’s strategy and expressed optimism despite recent challenges. “This is a crucial match for us to build momentum before the AFC qualifiers. The players have been putting in tremendous effort, and I’m confident in their abilities,” he said.
Players to Watch
India’s Gurpreet Singh Sandhu will aim to deliver a stronger performance after an own goal marred the team’s 1-1 draw against Vietnam in their last outing. Farukh Choudhary, who scored the equalizer in that match, remains a vital attacking option. Meanwhile, Malaysia brings a balanced squad capable of challenging India’s defence.
Live Broadcast Details
The match will be telecast live on the Sports18 TV channel in India. Fans can also catch live streaming on the JioCinema app and website, making the game accessible to millions of football enthusiasts.
India Squad:
Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Vishal Kaith.
Defenders: Aakash Sangwan, Anwar Ali, Asish Rai, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, Roshan Singh Naorem, Sandesh Jhingan.
Midfielders: Brandon Fernandes, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Jithin MS, Lalengmawia Ralte, Liston Colaco, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Vibin Mohanan, Thoiba Singh.
Forwards: Edmund Lalrindika, Irfan Yadwad, Farukh Choudhary, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh.
