Manolo Marquez will be looking to secure his first win as the Indian national team gaffer.
Indian national team are undergoing a metamorphosis period after veteran Spanish coach Manolo Marquez took over the reins after Igor Stimac‘s departure. Marquez’s side locked horns against Mauritius and Syria in the Intercontinental Cup 2024. With a goalless draw against Mauritius and a humiliating defeat against Syria, the Blue Tigers are yet to score a single goal after the advent of the Marquez era.
The 126th-placed Indian football team will face a tough challenge against the Vietnamese team at the Thien Troung Stadium in Nam Dinh, Vietnam. In the most recent encounter between both these sides back in 2022 in Ho Chi Minh City, the hosts won convincingly by a 3-0 margin in the Hung Thinh Friendly Tournament.
This encounter promises to be nothing less than an absolute blockbuster. Both sides with parallel fortunes look forward to getting the better of each other in the upcoming international friendly fixture. In this feature, we try to delve deep into the mind of the Spanish tactician and decode his probable lineup for the Vietnam clash.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (Goalkeeper)
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, the newly appointed captain of the Indian national football team, faces a crucial test in the upcoming international friendly against Vietnam. With growing discussions around his selection over other contenders like Vishal Kaith and Amrinder Singh, Gurpreet will be determined to silence any doubters and prove his worth as India’s first-choice goalkeeper.
His towering 6 feet 6 inches frame, combined with his wealth of experience, make him a formidable force. For Vietnamese strikers, he is nothing less than a daunting obstacle in the heart of the Indian defence. With 142 appearances for the Blue Tigers, Gurpreet isn’t just a seasoned veteran, he is the heartbeat of the team’s backline.
His calmness under pressure and his command over the defence inspire confidence. As captain, his leadership and ability to step up in key moments will be essential to India’s chances against the hosts. More than just keeping a clean sheet, Gurpreet will be playing for pride, for his teammates and for the faith the nation has placed in him.
Nikhil Poojary (Right back)
Nikhil Poojary, the 29-year-old right-back from Mangaluru, has firmly established himself as a key figure in India’s defensive lineup. Standing at 5-foot-10, Poojary’s journey from his early days with East Bengal to becoming an integral part of Hyderabad FC is a testament to his growth and dedication to the sport. His transition to Hyderabad FC in 2019 was pivotal. He played an essential role in the club’s Indian Super League title-winning campaign.
With over 79 appearances for the Nizams and a goal to his name, his performances earned him the call-up to the national team, marking a major milestone in his career. Poojary made an impactful debut on the international stage, scoring his first goal against the Maldives in the 2018 SAFF Championship. He has since contributed to India’s triumph in the 2023 SAFF Championship and played a part in the 2017 Tri-Nation Series victory. As he prepares to face Vietnam, Poojary’s defensive acumen will be crucial in shutting down attacks from the right flank, while his ability to make overlapping runs will provide valuable support to India’s wingers and strikers.
Also Read: Why are Indian football team called ‘The Blue Tigers’?
Rahul Bheke (Centre back)
Rahul Bheke shoulders a significant responsibility as he steps into the role of a key centre-back for the Indian national team, particularly in the absence of Sandesh Jhingan, whose long-term injury has left a void in the defensive line. The 5-foot-10 defender from Mumbai began his football journey with Air India, but his career truly took off when he joined Bengaluru FC in 2017.
During his four-year tenure at the Kanteerava Stadium, Bheke became a fan favourite, known for his knack for scoring crucial headed goals. Bheke’s leadership qualities shone brightly when he was appointed captain of Mumbai City FC, a role that further cemented his reputation as a dependable and composed figure on the pitch.
With 31 caps for the Indian national team and a goal to his name, Bheke earned his first call-up under head coach Igor Stimac, debuting against Curacao in the 2019 King’s Cup. His first international goal came in a vital match against Bahrain in 2022, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion. As India prepare to face Vietnam, Bheke will be tasked with ensuring the defence remains solid and unbreakable.
Anwar Ali (Centre back)
Anwar Ali’s recent tenure at East Bengal may have been challenging, with the club enduring a string of four consecutive defeats and the departure of head coach Carles Cuadrat, but his resilience and sheer defensive prowess remain undeniable. Despite the struggles of the team, Anwar’s steadfastness as a defender continues to distinguish him as one of the finest in the Indian subcontinent. His fearless approach and no-nonsense defending have become hallmarks of his game.
Anwar Ali’s journey has been marked by extraordinary determination. Diagnosed with a rare heart condition that threatened to end his career prematurely, he has continued to defy the odds and inspire athletes across all sports. Since making his national team debut in a narrow 2-1 loss against Bahrain, Anwar’s importance to the Indian defence has only grown. As India prepare to face Vietnam in their upcoming international fixture, Anwar Ali will play a pivotal role in marshalling the defence and ensuring the team’s hopes of keeping a clean sheet.
Naorem Roshan Singh (Left back)
Manolo Marquez has long been a staunch supporter of nurturing young Indian talent, and his decision to select Naorem Roshan Singh over the seasoned Subhashish Bose for the upcoming fixture could be a testament to his belief in promoting emerging players. Roshan, a versatile 25-year-old from Manipur, who can operate both as a left-back and a winger, has been a critical figure for Bengaluru FC in recent seasons. His footballing journey began with Bengaluru FC’s reserve squad.
After a brief loan stint with Indian Arrows, he returned in 2019 to cement his place in the senior team. Since then, Roshan has become indispensable to the Blues, making over 43 appearances. His consistent performances earned him a call-up to the national team in 2022, where he made his debut against Bahrain in a narrow 2-1 loss.
Despite the defeat, Roshan made an immediate impact, providing an assist and showcasing his attacking capabilities from the left flank. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively gives him the edge, and under Marquez’s guidance, he’ll look to seize this moment and continue his rise in Indian football.
Suresh Wangjam (Defensive midfield)
Suresh Singh Wangjam, a dynamic young talent hailing from Manipur, has emerged as one of the most promising midfielders in Indian football. His journey began with Indian Arrows in 2017, where his potential quickly caught the eye of scouts. In 2019, he joined Bengaluru FC, and since then, he has become a crucial player for the Blues, making 87 appearances. He is fondly nicknamed “El Torito” and “Gooli Suresha” by fans at the Kanteerava Stadium.
Despite standing at a modest height, Suresh’s tenacity, agility, and tactical awareness have made him indispensable in midfield. His ability to break up opposition play, orchestrate counter-attacks, and provide defensive solidity has earned him a reputation as a reliable central defensive midfielder. His influence extends beyond the club level.
He has represented India on the global stage, notably participating in the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2017. Suresh’s talent was recognized when he was awarded the AIFF Emerging Player of the Year for 2020-21.
Also Read: Vietnam vs India team news, prediction & preview
Lalengmawia Ralte (Defensive midfield)
Lalengmawia Ralte, affectionately known as Apuia, has been making waves in Indian football with his recent high-profile switch from Mumbai City FC to Mohun Bagan just ahead of the Durand Cup. A native of Aizawl, Mizoram, and a product of the AIFF Elite Academy, the 5 feet 10 inches tall central midfielder has consistently proven his quality on the pitch. His rise to prominence began with NorthEast United FC, where the 2020-21 season saw him emerge as a key player, helping the Highlanders secure a third-place finish in the league table.
His maturity on the field was further highlighted when he was named captain of the side, making him one of the youngest players ever to lead a team in the Indian Super League. Apuia’s standout performances in 2021 earned him the ISL Emerging Player of the League award. His international debut came in a 1-1 draw against Oman in the same year.
Since then, he has been a vital part of the Indian national team setup. Known for his composure, ball control, and ability to dictate play from the midfield, Apuia will be crucial in orchestrating India’s attacks and asserting dominance in the centre of the pitch when they face Vietnam in their upcoming international friendly.
Lallianzuala Chhangte (Right winger)
Lallianzuala Chhangte is, without a doubt, one of the finest Indian footballers in recent times. His recent accolades, including the prestigious AIFF Men’s Player of the Year award and his distinction as the only Indian to clinch the Golden Ball in the 2022-23 ISL season, are a testament to his exceptional talent and consistency. Recently entrusted with the captain’s armband by Petr Kratky at Mumbai City FC, Chhangte now has the added responsibility of proving his leadership skills both for club and country.
Having made over 40 appearances for the Indian national team and netting eight goals, Chhangte’s journey from his debut goal against Nepal in the 2015 SAFF Championship to his crucial strike against Qatar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification fixture has been remarkable. That goal, in particular, reignited hope and belief among Indian football fans. As India now prepare for their upcoming matches, especially in the absence of Sunil Chhetri, Chhangte’s role becomes even more vital.
Brandon Fernandes (Attacking midfield)
Brandon Fernandes, having recently made the switch from FC Goa to Mumbai City FC, has found himself on the bench for some of the opening matches of his new club. However, the 30-year-old attacking midfielder from Margao remains one of the finest talents to emerge from Goa. Renowned for his creativity and vision on the field, Fernandes has carved out a reputation as one of India’s most underrated yet highly capable midfielders.
With 27 caps for the Indian national team, Brandon has also impressed on the international stage, playing a pivotal role in India’s triumphs in the 2023 Tri-Nation Series and the 2021 SAFF Championship. His early career in the India under-20 squad saw him net three goals in just seven matches, highlighting his attacking potential from a young age. As India prepare to face Vietnam in the upcoming international friendly, Brandon will be eager to seize any opportunity handed to him by head coach Manolo Marquez.
Also Read: India vs Vietnam: All time head-to-head record
Liston Colaco (Left winger)
Another creative midfielder hailing from Goa, Liston Colaco began his footballing journey with Salgaocar before making a name for himself with FC Goa. After his stint with the Gaurs, he moved to Hyderabad FC, where he flourished under the guidance of current national team coach, Manolo Marquez. His growth during this period was evident
It eventually led to a move to Mohun Bagan, where he has since become an integral part of the squad. At Mohun Bagan, Liston added both the ISL Cup and ISL Shield to his achievements, while also being crowned the Mohun Bagan Footballer of the Year in 2022. Now, with 25 caps for the Indian national team, Liston is eager to make the most of his opportunities under Marquez on the international stage.
He made his debut for India in a match against the UAE and has consistently showcased his flair and attacking prowess. As India prepare to face Vietnam, Liston will be keen to exploit any weaknesses in the opposition’s defence, using his creativity and attacking instincts to unlock their backline. With his technical abilities and eye for goal, he will be one of the key players to watch, as he looks to contribute to India’s success in the upcoming fixture.
Vikram Partap Singh (Centre forward)
Vikram Partap Singh, a rising star in Indian football, has been a standout performer both for club and country. A product of the esteemed Minerva Punjab youth academy, Vikram has shown immense promise and has had a stellar ISL season, highlighted by a memorable hat-trick against NorthEast United FC—the only hat-trick by an Indian player in the previous ISL campaign. His ability to score crucial goals at pivotal moments has made him one of Manolo Marquez’s most valuable attacking options.
Despite his call-up to the national squad for the 2023 Asian Cup, Vikram has not yet been fully utilized, often left underemployed as a striker or centre-forward. However, his raw talent is undeniable. His speed, ball control, and extraordinary acceleration make him a potent threat in the attacking third. Vikram’s versatility, coupled with his natural goal-scoring instinct, adds an invaluable dimension to the Blue Tigers’ offence. With the upcoming friendly against Vietnam, Vikram will be eager to prove his worth and capitalize on any opportunity for game time.
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