Which three Indian players made their debut against Maldives?

Manolo Marquez handed a debut to three young players in India vs Maldives.

After a prolonged period without a win, India finally tasted victory, defeating Maldives 3-0 in an international friendly. This marked their first win under coach Manolo Marquez and ended a 489-day drought, with goals from Rahul Bheke, Liston Colaco, and Sunil Chhetri.

The International friendly against Maldives was a crucial test for Manolo Marquez because there was an immediate need to experiment with an injury-hit squad while also having the desire for a morale-boosting victory. The gaffer achieved this by fielding a team that included three debutants and securing a 3-0 win.

Manolo Marquez handed three very talented players their senior team debut against Maldives! #IndianFootball #IndianFootballTeam #BlueTigers pic.twitter.com/w2A3Hfat7j

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) March 20, 2025

Let’s take a look at the players that made their debut against the Red Snappers

3.Tekcham Abhishek Singh

The injury to Defender Ashish Rai had opened the door for Punjab FC’s Tekcham Abhishek Singh, a 20-year-old defender with great potential to get the national team call-up. Capable of playing both centre-back and full-back, the 20-year-old has been a frequent starter for the Shers, featuring in 22 of 24 matches. Statistically, he shows a 77% passing accuracy, averaging 30 passes per game, and has proven his physical presence by winning 86 duels, including 8 aerial battles.

Coming on for Liston Colaco in the 86th minute, he delivered a strong defensive performance with quick, precise and accurate defending skills.

2. Boris Singh Thangjam

Boris Singh’s consistent performance for FC Goa in the 2024-25 ISL season have led to his well-deserved national team call-up. He demonstrated his ability to adapt to different roles on the right flank, starting in 22 of 23 matches. His contributions included a goal, an assist, and an 80% passing accuracy, showcasing his balanced approach to the game, especially under Coach Manolo Marquez at FC Goa.

Replacing Valpuia at right-back in the 61st minute, Boris Singh immediately injected fresh energy into the team. He not only provided a surge of attacking energy but also kept driving the ball forward and showing sharp, effective play.

1. Ayush Chhetri

The 2024-25 ISL season saw Ayush Chhetri emerge as a key player for FC Goa, proving to be a reliable and one of the most effective midfielders for the Gaurs. The 21-year-old quickly adapted to Marquez’s tactical approach, delivering impressive performances by playing from a deep-lying midfield position. His defensive work, including 62 possession recoveries and 57 duels won, was balanced by his playmaking, with 23 passes per game and three goal contributions.

Ayush Chhetri had a memorable debut for India against Maldives. He not only secured a place in the starting lineup but also delivered a solid performance, utilizing his physicality and ball-winning skills to trouble the opposition as he stopped their flow from the central areas.

Manolo Marquez can now play with a well-balanced squad, featuring the experience of senior players like Sunil Chhetri, Sandesh Jhingan, and Rahul Bheke, alongside the fresh energy and potential of debutants Boris Singh, Ayush Chhetri, and Abhishek Singh for the match against Bangladesh for the third round of the AFC Asian Cup qualification.

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