Biby Thomas' young India Under-20 side will face a stern test against Syria in their opening match of the Mandiri U20 Challenge Series in Indonesia on Friday. The tournament will see the Indian Colts, comprising mainly under-17 and under-18 players, face a significant challenge against older and more experienced opposition. (More Football News)
ꩵSyria, Jordan, and Indonesia are utilizing the tournament as a crucial preparation for the upcoming AFC U20 Asian Cup, fielding players born in 2005. In contrast, India's squad consists primarily of 2007 and 2008-born players, focusing their development on the upcoming SAFF U19 Championship.
🦩Despite their youth, the Indian team boasts a core of experienced players. Twelve members of the squad were part of the triumphant SAFF U17 Championship-winning team in Bhutan last year, while players like Malemngamba Singh Thokchom have represented India at both the AFC U17 Asian Cup and the SAFF U20 Championship.
🐭However, Syria enters the tournament with a strong pedigree. They secured a flawless qualification for the AFC U20 Asian Cup, winning all four of their matches. While they drew all three of their recent friendlies in Qatar, their consistent performances demonstrate their competitive edge.
♉This match will provide a valuable learning experience for the young Indian side. Facing a more experienced and physically mature opponent will expose their strengths and weaknesses, allowing Coach Thomas to assess their progress and identify areas for improvement.
🔜The Indian U20s will be eager to put on a strong performance and gain valuable international experience against a strong opponent like Syria. The match promises to be a challenging but crucial step in the development of this young and talented squad.
India U20 squad for the Mandiri U20 Challenge Series
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.
Head Coach: Biby Thomas Muttath
Assistant Coach: Mileswamy Govindaraju Ramachandran
Goalkeeping Coach: Dipankar Choudhury
Strength and Conditioning Coach: Chelston Pinto
India U-20 Vs Syria U-20, Mandiri U20 Challenge Series - Live Streaming Details
When is the India U-20 Vs Syria U-20, Mandiri U20 Challenge Series match?
ꦐThe India U-20 Vs Syria U-20, Mandiri U20 Challenge Series match will be played at 02:30 pm IST on Friday, 24 January 2025.
Where will the India U-20 Vs Syria U-20, Mandiri U20 Challenge Series match be played?
🌜The India U-20 Vs Syria U-20, Mandiri U20 Challenge Series match will be played at the Gelora Delta Stadium, Sidoarjo, Indonesia.
Where to watch the India U-20 Vs Syria U-20, Mandiri U20 Challenge Series match?
𒆙The live-streaming details of the India U-20 Vs Syria U-20, Mandiri U20 Challenge Series are not disclosed yet.
