Three new faces called up for Indian U23 squad for Iraq friendlies

The Indian U23 team will play friendlies against Iraq in August.

As the Indian U23 team prepare for the AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers, Naushad Moosa and his boys have landed in Malaysia to play two friendlies against Iraq.

These friendlies will be an opportunity for India to try and zero in on the combinations they will play with in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers. The qualifiers will start on September 3, with India taking on Brunei in the first match.

The availability of players is a serious issue for Naushad Moosa, as some of the players have not flown with the team. However, his side has plenty of talented players who can emerge as big names. In this article, we will look into three new faces in the U23 squad who have the potential to take India to the main tournament.

Also Read: Three trialists make it to 24-member India U23 Squad for Iraq friendlies in Malaysia

Soham Varshneya

The Bengaluru FC midfielder has been a sparkling gem for the Bengaluru FC reserves this season. The youngster started the season strong with 4 goals and 2 assists in the Puttiah Memorial Cup before establishing himself as the key player in the BDFA Super Division. Varshneya netted 7 goals and provided nine crucial assists, bagging the best midfielder award in the state competition.

He followed with strong performances in the Reliance Foundation Development League(RFDL), which eventually allowed him to make his first-ever ISL start, coming on as a substitute against Mumbai City FC, replacing Suresh Singh Wangjam.

Varshneya will provide Moosa with a strong attacking option and his creative side will be a useful tool for the Indian side, especially considering that the U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers are nearby.

Harsh Palande

The defender is relentless, tenacious and more importantly, consistent. There is not much doubt present as to why Bengaluru FC signed him from the Reliance Foundation Young Champs. He put up strong performances in the RFDL. And for BFC, Palande has been a brilliant presence in the backline in an otherwise difficult season for the Reserves.

Palande is yet to make the senior team debut for the Blues, but it is likely to be too far ahead, especially considering that Bengaluru FC needs depth in defence. A strong showing during the friendlies against Iraq will bolster his case as well.

Sahil Harijan

The most surprising inclusion is Sahil Harijan plays as a wide forward for the Calcutta Football League side United SC. His best performance came during the CFL encounter against Mohammedan Sporting Club, where he bagged a late brace to seal the deal and the three points for his club. His brace included a brilliant solo goal that put his talent on notice for everyone to see.

The former Mohun Bagan SG youngster has an eye for goal and can cause trouble for opposition defenders with his quick feet and shooting range. His pace will also be a force to be reckoned with. Moosa could use him as a fast pair of legs against tired defenders and Harijan’s performance will have many ISL Clubs on the lookout.

Will the new faces be the key for the Indian side against Iraq? Can Moosa galvanize the new-look squad behind him?

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.