Merdeka Cup: Three Indian players to watch out for

The Blue Tigers will take on Malaysia in the Merdeka Cup semis.

The Indian football team are all set to resume their preparations for the AFC Asian Cup, as they now play in the coveted Merdeka Cup. The tournament will commence on the 13th of this month, and both semi-final fixtures will be played on that very day.

India will take on hosts Malaysia in the fixture, and will face either Palestine or Tajikistan in the following third-place fixture or final, depending on the outcome of their own match.

India’s probable squad for the Merdeka Cup 2023, was announced on the 29th of September. It features a number of household names, as well as a few new additions. 

So, keeping in mind their past record with the national team, and their current form in the Indian Super League, here's a list of the top three players that the fans need to look forward to in the Merdeka Cup. (We haven't ranked them in any order)

Sahal Abdul Samad

Over the span of the past few months, Sahal Abdul Samad has very much consolidated his place in the starting XI of the national team, and has successfully seized the opportunity given to him by Igor Stimac. 

Under the Croatian, Sahal has a very free role in the midfield that allows him to spark his creativity and create tons of chances for the forwards.

Also, keeping in mind Sahal’s current form in the ISL and AFC Cup, it is fair to say that the 26-year-old is India’s biggest hotshot at the moment, and his contribution will be significant for the Blue Tigers in the Merdeka Cup.

Anwar Ali

Like Sahal, Anwar Ali has also emerged as Igor's ideal option in the backline for India. With his solid shifts in the backline throughout the summer camp, Anwar has got himself among the top ranks of Igor’s liking.

The 23-year-old is favoured not only for his defensive abilities, but also for his comfortability with the ball at his feet. Anwar can make great forward runs with the ball, and also play inch-perfect long balls to facilitate quick attacking play.

These attributes combined with Anwar’s great run of form with Mohun Bagan in domestic football, make him another exciting prospect to watch out for.

Naorem Mahesh Singh

From a surprising national team call-up and debut in the Tri-Nation Tournament earlier this year, to becoming one of the best attacking players for India, Naorem Mahesh Singh’s journey is nothing short of a spectacle.

With his quick thinking in the final third and great distribution, Mahesh creates chances aplenty, and serves as a real terror for the opponent. Also, the winger has added goal-scoring to his inventory. He has notched two goals in 12 appearances for the national team, including one against Iraq in King’s Cup last month.

With such a phenomenal track record with the national team, and an equally impressive start to the new season with East Bengal, Mahesh is undoubtedly another player fans need to watch out for.