Thrilling Triumph: Meghalaya’s Manbhakupar Malngiang Shines in India U17 Squad for AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers – Northeast News Exclusive
Shillong’s own Manbhakupar Malngiang has earned a notable spot in the 23-member squad of India’s U17 Men’s National Team, set to compete in the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2025 Qualifiers. The team selection was announced by the national team head coach Ishfaq Ahmed on Sunday, highlighting the fresh talent among the Indian football youth.
The qualifiers, structured into 10 groups, offer a pivotal opportunity for teams across Asia to vie for a place in the main tournament. The winners from each group, alongside the five best second-placed teams, will advance to join the hosts, Saudi Arabia, at the prestigious AFC U17 Asian Cup 2025.
India has been placed in Group D and will face off against formidable opponents. Their journey begins against Brunei Darussalam on March 23, followed by a match against Turkmenistan on March 25. The group stage will conclude with a challenging encounter against the host nation, Thailand, on March 27.
India’s squad features a well-rounded blend of talent across all positions. The goalkeeping responsibilities are trusted to Aheibam Suraj Singh, Rohit, and Nandan Roy. The defensive lineup includes Karish Soram, Mohamed Kaif, and others, while the midfield is bolstered by the likes of Abdul Salha Sheergojri and Manbhakupar Malngiang. The attack is spearheaded by promising forwards such as Bharat Lairenjam and Prem Hansdak.
Supporting the team’s on-field efforts is a strategic coaching team led by head coach Ishfaq Ahmed, with contributions from assistant coach Ramachandran Govindaraju Mileswamy, goalkeeper coach Zakeer Hussain Mohammed, and strength and conditioning expert Chelston Pinto.
Meghalaya takes pride in Malngiang’s inclusion, reflecting the state’s growing footprint in Indian football. As the team gears up for the qualifiers, all eyes will be on these young athletes to see if they can secure a spot in one of Asia’s most significant football tournaments.
Original Story https://nenews.in/meghalaya/meghalayas-manbhakupar-malngiang-in-india-u17-squad-for-afc-asian-cup-qualifiers/15045/
Category : Meghalaya,Sports,AFC U17 Asian Cup 2025 Qualifiers,Manbhakupar Malngiang
Tags:
