Year Ender 2022: Indian football team of the year

These players were sensational throughout the year and made a mark on the football pitch.

There was a lot of exciting footballing action in the year 2022 for the Indian football enthusiast. From the Indian Super League to the exploits of the national team on the international stage and more, there were many opportunities for the players to impress their fans.

Utilising those opportunities, a few Indian footballers made the most of their chances and left their mark in the year. These players had a successful 2022 where they helped their respective clubs achieve their objectives and proved their mettle at the same time. 

The following players were the best in their positions, thanks to consistent and impressive performances that gave fans numerous memorable moments to look back to. As the year departs, here is a look at the Indian football team of 2022:

Goalkeeper: Laxmikant Kattimani

Laxmikant Kattimani was the best Indian goalkeeper in 2022 considering his performance in the Indian Super League for Hyderabad FC. The custodian was immense for the Nizams in their ISL 2021-22 win where he saved three penalties in the final against Kerala Blasters. Before picking up an injury that rules him out for the whole of ISL 2022-23 season, Kattimani had four clean sheets in six appearances.

Right-back: Asish Rai

Hyderabad FC won the ISL 2021-22 thanks to their sensational defensive unit that also had Asish Rai. Before the full-back signed for ISL heavyweights ATK Mohun Bagan, he was setting the stage alight for the Nizams. The 23-year-old continues to be a reliable figure down the right flank with his unmatched industry and strong attacking threat.

Centre-back: Anwar Ali

Anwar Ali had a brilliant 2022 and his tale had a touch of heroism. His football career was close to an early end after a heart condition surfaced. However, it did not break his resolve and the centre-back got the green light from the AIFF to play after consulting doctors. He joined FC Goa on 1 January 2022 and since has been one of their most consistent players. In the centre-back position, Ali was outstanding throughout the year, be it for the Gaurs or the Indian national team during the Asian Cup Qualifiers.

Centre-back: Hormipam Ruivah

Hormipam Ruivah’s rise as a reliable centre-back has been a joy to watch. The defender played a key role in helping Kerala Blasters reach the final of the ISL 2021-22. His partnership alongside Marko Leskovic remains one of the strongest in the league today. He is only 21 years old and will certainly grow as an individual moving forward. Furthermore, his displays earned him his national team debut against Belarus on 26 March 2022.

Left-back: Akash Mishra

Akash Mishra is widely regarded as the best left-back (current) in the country. He was a key contributor in helping Hyderabad FC win the Indian Super League 2021-22 title. The 21-year-old was part of the Indian men’s national team for the international friendlies against Belarus and Bahrain. He also represented the country against Singapore and Vietnam later in the year. 

Defensive midfielder: Jeakson Singh

Jeakson Singh has grown by leaps and bounds since his appearances at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2017. Playing alongside Lalthathanga Khawlhring, a.k.a Puitea, Singh forged a solid partnership in KBFC’s midfield, helping them to reach the final of the ISL 2021-22. He played four matches for India during the year.  

Central midfielder: Lalengmawia Ralte

Lalngmawia Ralte, also known simply as Apuia, is one of the most technically sound Indian players today. His vision, distribution of the ball and creativity are important qualities that helped Mumbai City a lot in the past year. He played every minute of MCFC’s AFC Champions League campaign where the club won two games and drew another out of six. 

Central midfielder: Sahal Abdul Samad

Sahal Abdul Samad proved his doubters wrong in 2022. He played a key role in Kerala Blasters' run to the final of the ISL 2021-22. He scored the winning goal against Jamshedpur FC in the first leg of the playoffs as well, but missed the final owing to an injury. 

Right winger: Lallianzuala Chhangte

Lallianzuala Chhangte took his game up a few gears during 2022. He was in a good goal-scoring touch, scoring plenty of them for Mumbai City. The attacking winger got the golden boot for his seven goals in the Durand Cup 2022. He played in all of MCFC’s AFC Champions League fixtures. Furthermore, he already has five goal contributions (four goals, one assist) in 10 ISL 2022-23 appearances. 

Left-winger: Bipin Singh

Bipin Singh’s importance to Mumbai City cannot be expressed simply in words. He is currently their all-time top goal-scorer. The winger had a fruitful 2022, playing extensively for the Islanders. He has scored seven goals in the ISL in 2022 (at the time of writing this), including four from 10 appearances in the ongoing campaign. When it comes to quality in the final third, Singh emerges as one of the best Indian wingers.

Striker: Sunil Chhetri

Sunil Chhetri’s ongoing ISL 2022-23 form may be underwhelming, but his overall contribution in 2022 cannot be underestimated. The legendary Indian forward played a key role for India during the Asian Cup qualifiers, scoring four goals in three fixtures.

Furthermore, he scored thrice and made two assists in the process of helping Bengaluru FC secure the Durand Cup 2022 title. His presence on the pitch made a huge difference in 2022 despite fewer goal contributions according to his usual standards.