AFC Asian Cup: Who are the top new faces in India's probables list?

The 50-member list will cut short before the AFC Asian Cup starts.

Indian football team head coach Igor Stimac has announced a preliminary roster of 50 players for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup, scheduled to be held in Doha, Qatar, in January 2024. The probable list comprises five goalkeepers, as well as 15 defenders, midfielders and forwards.

The Blue Tigers are placed in Group B, alongside Australia, Uzbekistan and Syria. India’s first match is against Australia on 13 January, 2024. 

In the roster of 50 players, several individuals, such as Anwar Ali and Ashique Kuruniyan, have been excluded due to injury concerns, while a handful of new talents have been included among the potential candidates.

Bikash Yumnam

Bikash Yumnam currently plays for ISL side Chennaiyin FC. He previously represented Punjab FC before joining Chennaiyin. 

Despite being just 20, Yumnam has already showcased his exceptional skills in defense through his outstanding performances in numerous matches. If given the opportunity to secure a place in the final team and eventually represent the Indian national side, it would undoubtedly be a momentous milestone in his career.

Kiyan Nassiri

The attacking midfielder, who is currently representing Mohun Bagan Super Giant, has displayed extraordinary form whenever called upon this season. 

Notably, he has already scored a remarkable goal in the AFC Cup match against Odisha FC. Furthermore, he consistently maintains his momentum and fearlessly breaches the opposition’s defensive line.

Parthib Gogoi

Parthib is presently serving as a winger for NorthEast United. Moreover, he has showcased his talent while representing Indian Arrows in the I-League. 

He achieved a remarkable feat by scoring a hat-trick in the Durand Cup match against Shillong Lajong. He has also scored three stunning goals in ISL 2023-24. While his inclusion might grab attention, if he performs to the best of his abilities, then he can outshine any opponent on any given day.

Ninthoi Meetei

Ninthoi predominantly operates as a winger. He has previously competed for NorthEast United FC and is presently a regular in Owen Coyle’s Chennaiyin FC. He excels in generating opportunities through his offensive play in the wings and effectively capitalizes on every possible chance.

Jerry Mawihmingthanga

Before joining Odisha FC, Jerry had previously played for NorthEast United FC and Jamshedpur FC. However, it was with Odisha that Jerry truly showcased his talent. Since signing for the team, he has consistently been an outstanding asset, which has resulted in him being included in the potential roster for the AFC Asian Cup 2023.

Amey Ranawade

Another player from Odisha FC who has been included in the probables list is Amey Ranwade. The defender joined the Juggernauts on loan from Mumbai City FC before the start of the 2023-24 season.

In addition to his defensive skills, Ranawade has also scored two goals for Odisha this season. His inclusion in the list will undoubtedly boost his confidence and motivate him to work even harder in order to receive his first call-up.

Sivasakthi Narayanan

Sivasakthi has had an exceptional career at Bengaluru FC. The forward possesses the ability to penetrate the defense line and generate exciting opportunities for his team, a skill that he consistently demonstrates for his club. 

However, despite being called up, it will be challenging for him to secure a position in the final XI (if he is picked for the main squad), as Sunil Chhetri, Nandhakumar Sekar, Manvir Singh, Naorem Mahesh Singh and Lallianzuala Chhangte are already strong contenders for the position. (Note: Siva was called up for the Tri-Nation Tournament earlier in 2023, but couldn’t make it due an injury he received in the ISL 2022-23 finale).

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