List of all Indian players to debut at AFC Asian Cup 2023

Indian Football Team will play their first match of AFC Asian Cup 2023 on January 13 against Australia.

With the announcement of the squad, the Indian Men’s football team is fully prepared to represent the nation at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup in Doha, Qatar. The team, led by coach Igor Stimac, has also reached Qatar and will play their first match on the 13th of January against Australia.

Earlier, 50 potential candidates were announced for the tournament, from which a 26-member team was chosen. The final roster comprises 17 players who will take part in the AFC Asian Cup for the first time in their careers, including 5 defenders, 7 midfielders and 5 forwards.

In this article, we will take a look at the players who are going to make their debut in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup.  

Indian Squad for the 2023 AFC Asian Cup

Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Vishal Kaith.

Defenders: Akash Mishra, Lalchungnunga, Mehtab Singh, Nikhil Poojary, Pritam Kotal, Rahul Bheke, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose.

Midfielders: Anirudh Thapa, Brandon Fernandes, Deepak Tangri, Lalengmawia Ralte, Liston Colaco, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Sahal Abdul Samad, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Udanta Singh.

Forwards: Ishan Pandita, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh, Rahul Kannoly Praveen, Sunil Chhetri, Vikram Partap Singh.

Players who will debut at AFC Asian Cup 

Akash Mishra

Akash Mishra has consistently represented the Indian team since making his debut in 2021. Despite his youthful age, the player has already earned 24 caps for India and is poised to make his debut appearance at the upcoming edition of the AFC Asian Cup.

Lalchungnunga

The defender has only played one match thus far, having spent around four games on the bench since being included in the national squad. Furthermore, his debut consisted of only one minute as a substitution in the match against Qatar last November.

Mehtab Singh

Mehtab is a formidable presence in the backline. With the experience of nine international matches under his belt, he is poised to be utilized judiciously according to the team’s needs. Having spent time on the bench during the World Cup qualifier matches, he may now experience a reversal of fortune.

Nikhil Poojary

Poojary has displayed consistent performance this season while representing Hyderabad FC in the ISL. His form will significantly benefit the Indian team, as they aim to maintain a strong defensive line capable of minimizing the threat posed by their opponents.

Rahul Bheke

Bheke’s inclusion in the defensive lineup will not only bolster the team’s defensive capabilities but also provide valuable mentorship for the younger players. In Anwar Ali’s absence, his collaboration with Sandesh Jhingan will be pivotal in the upcoming matches. 

Brandon Fernandes

Brandon is set to return to the team following his absence from the last few matches due to being sidelined. While he may not be the coach’s initial preference to take the field, he is determined to make a significant impact with his performance when the opportunity arises.

Deepak Tangri

Tangri’s unexpected inclusion has surprised many. The midfielder is yet to make his debut for the national team. Despite his solid performances at the domestic level, the coach will intend to use his talent sparingly, deploying him only as necessary.

Lalengmawia Ralte

Apuia has demonstrated exceptional performance in recent months, greatly enhancing the team’s prospects. Primarily slated for deployment in the central or defensive midfield, the young talent is expected to make a significant impact.

Liston Colaco

Liston has recently been on the bench for several consecutive matches at the international level. However, his enhanced performance in the ISL this season may prompt the coach to consider retaining him, perhaps to play some matches, either from the start or as a substitute.

Naorem Mahesh Singh

Naorem, who predominantly operates as a left winger, has displayed remarkable consistency as a key player for the national team in recent matches. His impactful presence in the midfield significantly enhances the team’s performance, while his rapid runs and creative duels effectively breach the opposition’s defensive line, providing a notable advantage for the team.

Sahal Abdul Samad

Sahal’s participation remains unconfirmed, but there is assurance that he may recover by the third week of January. His potential return would significantly benefit the Indian team, given his impressive form this season. Furthermore, his ability to score crucial goals adds an exciting dimension to the game.

Suresh Singh Wangjam

Suresh has been a regular in the team since his return in September 2023. The defensive midfielder has featured in every match since then, including the World Cup qualifiers. Undoubtedly, the coach will have confidence in his abilities and include him in the lineup from the outset of the tournament.

Ishan Pandita

Except for his seven-minute presence on the field in India’s last match against Qatar, Ishan has mostly been out of the squad for an extended period or has simply been on the bench. It will be intriguing to see whether he will be given an opportunity this time or not.

Lallianzuala Chhangte

Chhangte has exhibited remarkable performances for the national team in the last few matches. He has contributed immensely, scoring three goals and providing three assists for the team in 2023. As the team looks ahead, he aims to maintain this momentum in favor of the team, fostering a strong partnership with Sunil Chhetri at the forefront. 

Manvir Singh

Manvir’s goal against Kuwait in the World Cup qualifier was instrumental in India securing a significant victory. However, the team suffered from his absence in the subsequent match due to an injury. He is expected to be a pivotal force in the forward line and will strive to capitalize on every opportunity presented.

Rahul Kannoly Praveen 

The player from Kerala Blasters has been a significant contributor to the club. However, with regards to the national team, he has participated in six games, predominantly as a substitute. Nonetheless, if he leverages his skills, he could pose a substantial threat to the opposing teams.

Vikram Partap Singh

Vikram is yet to make his debut for the Indian National Team. Despite his promising season, his inclusion in the final squad for the upcoming match will ultimately be determined by the team management.

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