MARGAO
India's U-20 national team, led by head coach Biby Thomas, is set to compete in the prestigious Mandiri U-20 Challenge Series in Indonesia from January 24-30.
This four-nation friendly tournament will see India face Syria, Jordan, and hosts Indonesia at the Gelora Delta Stadium in Sidoarjo.
This competition serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming SAFF U-19 Championship and also provides valuable experience for their opponents as they prepare for the AFC U-20 Asian Cup next month. Following the tournament, the Indian squad will undergo an extended training camp in anticipation of the SAFF U-19 Championship.
The 23-member squad, predominantly featuring players born in 2007 and 2008, showcases the All India Football Federation's (AIFF) commitment to developing young talent. The team includes one Goan player, Jodric Abranches, who is a product of Dempo's youth development program. The roster blends returning talent from last year's U-17 squad under Ishaq Ahmed with seven new faces.
Speaking to The Goan Everyday, Thomas highlighted the importance of the Mandiri U-20 Challenge Series in preparing for the SAFF Championship. He acknowledged the AIFF's support in providing exposure trips and practice matches, which have been instrumental in their preparations. "The players are looking forward to the Championship, and so am I," Thomas concluded. "We are waiting to go out on the field and play some good football."
Coach Biby Thomas expressed confidence in the team's preparation, stating, "The team worked hard in both training and strategies to bring their best performance to the field, with a focused mind on technique and fitness. We played three friendly matches, winning two and losing one." He emphasized a realistic approach, empowering players to make in-game decisions based on the situation.
SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Suraj Singh Aheibam, Alsabith Sulaiman Thekkekaramel, Karan Makkar
Defenders: Yaipharemba Chingakham, Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum, Afinmon Baiju, Mukul Panwar, Malemngamba Singh Thokchom, Jodric Abranches
Midfielders: Md. Arbash, Mahmad Sami, Levis Zangminlun, Manbhakupar Malngiang, Ahongshangbam Samson, Ninghthoukhongjam Rishi Singh, Jajo Prashan, Ngamgouhou Mate, Gurnaj Singh Grewal, Danny Meitei Laishram
Forwards: Bharat Lairenjam, Lemmet Tangvah, Sujin S, Mohd. Zulkif
