In a much-anticipated announcement, Senior Men’s National Team Head Coach Igor Stimac unveiled a list of 26 probables for the upcoming Merdeka Cup 2023. Scheduled to take place in Malaysia from October 13th to 17th, this tournament promises exciting football action featuring India, hosts Malaysia, Palestine, and Tajikistan.

Indian Football Team at the Asian Games 2023 Image via Twitter

The Merdeka Cup 2023: A Four-Team Showdown

The Merdeka Cup 2023 is set to captivate football enthusiasts with its four-team lineup. Besides India, the tournament will feature host nation Malaysia, Palestine, and Tajikistan. The competition format is knockout, adding an extra layer of intensity to the matches. India’s journey kicks off with a semi-final clash against Malaysia on October 13, while Palestine and Tajikistan lock horns in the other semi-final on the same day.

A Grand Finale on October 17

Mark your calendars for October 17, the day of reckoning. Not only will the final match decide the tournament champion, but it’s also the stage for the third-place match, featuring the two teams that fall short in the semi-finals.

Awaiting the Final Squad Announcement

While the 26-player probables list is out, the final roster of 23 players who will represent India in Malaysia will be disclosed in the second week of October. Football fans eagerly anticipate this crucial announcement.

Captain Sunil Chhetri, Image via Twitter

The 26 Probables:

Igor Stimac’s provisional squad boasts a mix of experienced players and promising talents. Here’s the breakdown:

Goalkeepers:

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu
Amrinder Singh
Vishal Kate
Dheeraj Singh

Defenders:

Nikhil Poojari
Roshan Singh
Sandesh Jhingan
Anwar Ali
Mehtab Singh
Lalchungnunga
Akash Mishra
Subhashish Bose

Midfielders:

Jeakson Singh
Suresh Singh
Anirudh Thapa
Rohit Kumar
Sahal Abdul Samad
Brandon Fernandes
Lalianzuala Chhangte
Udanta Singh
Vikram Pratap Singh
Mahesh Singh Naorem
Liston Colaco
Nandhakumar Sekar

Forwards:

Sunil Chhetri
Manvir Singh

Stimac’s Full-Strength Side

The selection of these 26 probables suggests that Igor Stimac will have a formidable squad at his disposal. This is in stark contrast to India’s recent football woes at the Asian Games, where they were eliminated by Saudi Arabia.

Indian Football Team in Training at the Asian Games 2023, Image via Twitter

AIFF’s Plan to Extend Igor Stimac’s Contract

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is reportedly considering extending Igor Stimac’s contract as head coach of the Indian Men’s Football Team beyond the Asian Games in 2023. Despite the team’s exit from the Asian Games, the AIFF has expressed its desire to retain Stimac’s services.

Bosnia National Team Offer for Stimac

Amidst rumors and speculation, it has come to light that Igor Stimac is being considered to lead the Bosnia national team. This development has raised eyebrows in Indian football circles. However, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey emphasized the federation’s interest in retaining Stimac for the Indian team.

Timing Is Key

Kalyan Chaubey, President of AIFF, confirmed the federation’s intention to extend Stimac’s contract but stressed the importance of timing. With a crucial match against Myanmar on the horizon, the AIFF aims to finalize the extension and contract terms once Stimac is in New Delhi. This approach is aimed at ensuring minimal distractions for the team and its head coach.

Indian Football Team Coach Igor Stimac, Image via Twitter

Stimac’s Request for an Extension

Sources within AIFF have revealed that Stimac has been advocating for a contract extension for some time. His argument centers around the need for stability before the World Cup qualifiers in November. AIFF seems inclined to grant him a two-year contract following the Asian Cup in 2024.

The footballing world eagerly awaits the performance of India’s national team in the Merdeka Cup 2023 and the resolution of Igor Stimac’s coaching future, which could have a significant impact on the team’s journey to the World Cup qualifiers.