Merdeka Cup: Looking back at India's best outings

India has participated in 17 of Merdeka Cup's 41 editions.

India will participate in the 42nd Merdeka Cup, which will be hosted this October by the Football Association of Malaysia and will include three teams: Malaysia, Tajikistan and India. Palestine, who were initially the fourth team, withdrew from the tournament following the sudden political unrest that erupted in the nation. And hence, now the competition will be played among these three teams, as announced by the organisers.

The Blue Tigers just returned from Hangzhou after competing in the Asian Games, where they lost 0-1 against the Saudis in the RO16. Before the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in November, Igor Stimac's squad will be hoping for their desired result in the Merdeka Cup since India are yet to take home a trophy in this renowned competition. On October 13, India will face host Malaysia in the knockout game at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, Kuala Lumpur.

India's participation in Merdeka Cup has always been the talk of the town among many Indian football enthusiasts. So, let's now take a look at how India have fared in the previously played editions of the tournament.

Historical Significance

The Merdeka Cup is one of Asia's oldest football event, having commenced in 1957. India made their debut in the competition in the same year. India will compete in the event for the first time since 2001, and for the 18th time overall. India's participation has been marked by a strong and exciting contest amongst the greatest Asian nations. One of India's finest runs in the Merdeka Cup was finishing as runners-up in the years 1959 and 1964.

India's Merdeka Cup history highlights their great football tradition and sporadic victories in this important competition. In the event, the country has had times of dominance and comeback, adding to the rich history of Indian football. The best players from India have excelled in this competition, including P.K. Banerjee and Tulsidas Balaram. Thus, it has a greater historical significance as it has given global recognition to India amongst the top Asian teams.

India's best outing

India has always been one of the finest teams at the Merdeka Cup, but they are yet to take home the trophy. In the years 1959 and 1964, India came extremely close to winning the cup both times, but they ultimately finished second. India lost 0-1 to Burma (now Myanmar) in 1964 and to Malaysia, the hosts, in 1959. After their runners-up campaign ended in 1964, India finished third in both the 1965 and 1966 editions.

India will strive to maintain their legacy in this competition this time around, as they return to the Merdeka Cup after a 22-year absence.

India's best results in the Merdeka Cup so far

1959 - India finished second (Runners-up)

1964 - India finished second (Runners-up)

1965 - India finished third

1966 - India finished third

2001 - India finished fourth

India's overall run in the Merdeka Cup

Played: 17 editions

India Won: 0

Runners-up: 2