Top five Indian players who could shine against Thailand in upcoming friendly clash

The Blue Tigers are all set to play a FIFA Friendly against Thailand on 04th June 2025

The Indian senior men’s national team are all set to play a FIFA International Friendly match against Thailand on June 4th, Wednesday, 2025, at the Thammasat Stadium in Pathum Thani in Thailand.

The Blue Tigers are busy with their preparations for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round, but before that will have a FIFA International friendly against Thailand on the 04th of June. This match is scheduled ahead of their Group C qualification fixture against Hong Kong on June 10. Currently, India stands at 127th in the FIFA Rankings, while Thailand is positioned at 99th place.

The team’s preparatory camp for the International Window began in Kolkata on May 18th, and the Blue Tigers departed to Thailand on May 29th. Manolo Marquez’s men completed a six-day training camp in Kolkata, which included morning gym sessions and evening on-pitch workouts. The Blue Tigers also played two practice matches on May 26 and 27 as part of their preparation, both of which ended in victories for the Team.

As the Blue Tigers prepare to face Thailand in their upcoming friendly, certain players are expected to step up in their respective roles and make a difference on the pitch. Here are the top 5 players who can make a difference in the match.

5. Apuia Ralte

Apuia is the anchoring defensive midfielder, serving as a shield in front of the defense. He has an exceptional ability to read the game while anticipating the opposition’s movements, and in interceptions, which help in neutralizing opposition threats. He is also known to constantly attack the defense of the opposition team with his clever dribbling and movement, creating numerous chances.

Other than winning back possession through tackles and consistent pressing, Apuia’s accurate distribution is the key to maintaining the momentum in the midfield, ensuring a seamless transition from defense to offense for the Blue Tigers.

Also Read: Indian football team’s last five meetings against Thailand

4. Brandon Fernandes

Brandon Fernandes is a creative player in the midfield, known for his vision, passing range, and, most notably, his skill with set pieces. In a crucial match where opportunities might not be many in number, Brandon’s ability to deliver dangerous free-kicks and corners into the box can be a game-changer, setting up crucial headers or volleys for his teammates

Furthermore, his ability to shoot direct shots on goal from a far distance makes him a threat to the opposition. He will also look to create chances from set-pieces as well, nailing his crosses to help his teammates get a chance of scoring. His flair in situations could break through Thailand’s defense and provide the crucial chances for the Blue Tigers.

3. Subhashis Bose

An experienced defender and a tireless worker on the left flank, Subhasish Bose is more than just a defensive presence in the team. His overlapping runs and having the right positioning in the final third make him an important offensive player as well. He has a knack for scoring goals from wide areas, whether it’s through well-timed runs into the box or powerful shots, especially during crucial times.

His defense approach is always evident in his timely interventions, crucial clearances, and effective interceptions, often stopping the opponent’s attacking threats. His ability to contribute directly by scoring goals despite playing from a defensive position provides an added advantage to the Blue Tigers’ attack, creating crucial moments.

2. Rahul Bheke

Rahul Bheke is a highly versatile and dependable defender, capable of slotting in at right-back or centre-back when needed. Bheke has been getting positive results throughout the season, both for his club, Bengaluru FC and the national team. The experienced defender has seamlessly fit into both the team’s tactics, playing an important role in initiating attacks from the defensive areas.

Rahul Bheke has also proven to be a threat in the opposition’s box, contributing two goals for the national team and three for Bengaluru FC. His distribution skills are evident with an average of 50 passes per game with an 85% accuracy rate, showing composure and reliability in possession. His versatility and experience will be important to get through Thailand’s tactics.

1. Sunil Chhetri

Sunil Chhetri, the iconic captain, leader, and legend, has enjoyed a season of individual brilliance, matching his career-best performance in the ISL season. Sunil Chhetri‘s highly anticipated return to international football was marked by a goal against Maldives.

Sunil Chhetri is always a constant threat, his experience and understanding of the game evident in every touch. Despite being one of the oldest players of the team, he does not show any signs of weariness and also displays his intelligent movement and link-up play, consistently creating chances. His performance both in Bengaluru FC and for the national team against Maldives was a masterclass in leadership and goal-scoring skills.

In this friendly, his presence alone will put some amount of pressure on the opposition, regardless of whether he is in the starting 11 or coming on as a substitute. Whether it’s a decisive goal or a crucial assist, his skill make him the ultimate difference-maker. He will be looking to lead from the front against Thailand

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