Edmund Lalrindika replaces Irfan Yadwad in Indian Football Team squad for June international window

The Indian football team will be playing two games against Thailand and Hong Kong.

The Indian football team is set to take on Hong Kong on June 10 in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers, with hopes of securing a spot in the continental tournament scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia. After only managing to secure a 0-0 draw against Bangladesh, India now faces a crucial game to keep their qualification dreams alive. With the high stakes and the excitement building, Manolo Marquez is gearing up to first play a preparational friendly against Thailand on June 4.

However, the Indian football team have been dealt a significant blow ahead of the decisive encounters, as Chennaiyin FC forward, Irfan Yadwad, is set to miss the upcoming matches due to an appendix operation. Yadwad showed a lot of quality for the Marina Machans this season while making nine goal contributions in 24 games.

The forward, renowned for his blistering pace, dribbling ability, and goal-scoring prowess, will be missing the opportunity to play in the June international window.

While his absence leaves a major void in the squad, head coach Manolo Marquez has called up Edmund Lalrindika for the National Team Camp in Kolkata from May 18. As India prepares to navigate through this challenging phase, the team will be hoping Lalrindika can be an ideal replacement against Hong Kong on June 4.

Let us look at how Edmund Lalrindika can fill the gap left by Irfan Yadwad’s absence:

Edmund Lalrindika brings goals to the Indian Football Team

The Inter Kashi forward has been called up by the Spaniard after a decent campaign with the I-League side during the 2024-25 season. Lalrindika made nine goal contributions in 19 games for his side as Inter Kashi finished the season in a very promising position.

Having already earned four caps in the Indian football team, Lalrindika’s selection does not come as a surprise. He will be providing plenty of competition to players like Sunil Chhetri, Manvir Singh and Lallianzuala Chhangte for the starting position in the two upcoming games.

With two key games coming up, it is a great opportunity for Edmund Lalrindika to leave a lasting impression with the Indian football team. Manolo Marquez will be looking to impress as AFC Asian Cup qualification will be on the line against Hong Kong on June 10.

Updated Blue Tigers’ 28-member probables for Kolkata camp

Goalkeepers: Hrithik Tiwari, Vishal Kaith, Gurmeet Singh Chahal, Amrinder Singh.

Defenders: Naorem Roshan Singh, Rahul Bheke, Konsham Chinglensana Singh, Anwar Ali, Thangjam Boris Singh, Sandesh Jhingan, Asish Rai, Subhasish Bose, Mehtab Singh, Tekcham Abhishek Singh, Nikhil Prabhu.

Midfielders: Suresh Singh Wangjam, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Ayush Dev Chhetri, Udanta Singh Kumam, Lalengmawia Ralte, Liston Colaco, Ashique Kuruniyan, Brandon Fernandes.

Forwards: Sunil Chhetri, Edmund Lalrindika, Manvir Singh, Suhail Ahmad Bhat, Lallianzuala Chhangte.

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