Hyderabad set to host India-Malaysia International friendly on 19th November 2024

The City of Pearls could be the venue where India grab their first victory in 2024.

The highly anticipated International friendly match between India and Malaysia will be played at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad on November 19, 2024. A matchup significant for both teams will serve as coach Manolo Marquez’s opportunity to claim his first win as Indian head coach in 2024.

The match can also serve as a platform for Marquez to allow young Indian players to showcase their talents on the global stage.

The multi-purpose stadium which is also home to Indian Super League (ISL) club Hyderabad FC has hosted the 2003 Afro-Asian games and the 2024 Intercontinental Cup in the past.

The selection of Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad as the venue underscores the city’s growing reputation as a football hub in India. Boasting a seating capacity of over 30,000, the stadium is well-equipped to handle the legions of Blue Pilgrims eager to witness their team in action. The venue is expected to experience perfect weather conditions in November and is expected to be conducive for both players and spectators.

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Is Hyderabad the ideal option?

Despite the initial excitement of the announcement, the decision to host the match in Hyderabad has raised eyebrows.

Other deserving cities like Shillong and Jamshedpur, who were reportedly in contention missed out on this golden opportunity. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, home to ISL club, NorthEast United FC, recently underwent major renovations in the last 2 years. 

Apart from its passionate football culture and enthusiastic fan base, the stadium located in Shillong is closer than ever to meeting the required FIFA standards for international tournaments. Shillong’s stunning landscapes and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal location for hosting international matches.

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Many fans believe that playing an international fixture featuring India in Shillong will attract a lot of eyeballs and at the same time celebrate the rich football heritage of the region.

Over the years, Jamshedpur has also made a name for itself in Indian football. The JRD Tata Sports Complex, home to ISL club Jamshedpur FC, has been an emerging hub for the sport in the area. Boasting excellent facilities and a dedicated fan base, the complex is a multi-purpose stadium that has been primarily used for football. 

The Steel City has produced numerous talents, contributing to the country’s footballing landscape. The city’s infrastructure and passionate crowds would have provided a fantastic backdrop for the India-Malaysia match. Besides reporting one of the highest attendances in the ISL in recent memory, the stadium underwent massive renovation work recently.

Can India finally record their first win?

While Shillong and Jamshedpur were rejected in favour of Hyderabad, the Blue Tigers will be banking on their die-hard supporters in November. With the upcoming match, fans across the nation are eagerly awaiting tickets for the exciting showdown with Malaysia. Both sides are expected to field competitive lineups, which are sure to provide a thrilling spectacle. The match promises to be a landmark event in Indian football and for the city of Hyderabad. 

For Marquez, turning the Gachibowli Stadium into a fortress will be at the top of the agenda. They will be facing a spirited Malaysia side under new head coach Pau Mari Vicente, who have won two of their last three games.

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