India’s national football team faces a crucial friendly against Malaysia on Monday, their last chance to avoid ending 2023 without a win. The team has played 10 matches this year, drawing four and losing six.
Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu believes India can draw inspiration from their 1-1 draw against Vietnam last month. “We need to take the same understanding, the same energy,” he said.
The draw against Vietnam was India’s first against a higher-ranked team this year. Sandhu, the most experienced player in the squad with 75 caps, emphasized the importance of learning from the past and dealing with setbacks.
“There was a point when we were winning games. This too happens. It is how you deal with it that is important,” he said.
Head coach Manolo Marquez’s philosophy is still being implemented, but Sandhu believes the team is making progress. “After every camp, we feel like we are getting closer,” he said.
Sandesh Jhingan returns to the India set-up after a 10-month injury layoff. The central defender is a key player for both his club and the national team.
Malaysia, ranked 133rd in FIFA, will be a tough opponent for India. Sandhu warned that international matches can change quickly if concentration is lost.
“Do that for a minute and a good team will punish you,” he said.
India will be looking to end the year on a positive note and avoid a winless streak.
