As the AFC Asian Cup 2023 nears, Yaser Hamed has become the only ISL player to be called up for a non-Indian team playing the continental tournament. The NorthEast United defender will be representing Palestine in Qatar when the tournament kicks off in the upcoming days.

The defender has made only three starts this season for the Highlanders while five appearances have been from the bench. His performances have impressed enough to be called up to the national team, and now is his time to impress so that he can become a regular and raise his stock.

Yaser Hamed becomes only foreign ISL player to be called up to AFC Asian Cup 2023

Hamed joined NorthEast United FC in August 2023 and has been slowly integrated into the team. He has earned 26 caps for the Palestinian national team thus far, scoring five goals in spite of being a central defender.

However, Yaser Hamed will have to be at his best to make it out of Group C at the AFC Asian Cup 2023. Palestine have been drawn with Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates and Iran. And while they are not the favourites heading into the group, they may have a pleasant surprise considering how unpredictable these tournaments are.

To come with the Palestinian’s loss, NorthEast United FC have made a statement signing by recruiting Hamza Regragui on a free transfer. The Moroccan is set to sign a contract until 2025 with the Highlanders, making him the latest addition to the ISL.