With excitement already growing for the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup, India is more than ready to take to the field and show off its players’ skills. Their next qualifying match takes place on March 26 against the hosts Qatar. June 4 sees the national team taking a trip to Bangladesh, and their final qualifying match is on home soil against Afghanistan on June 9. Let us take a quick glance at some of the players who may be making an appearance.
Sunil Chhetri
Currently playing for Bengaluru FC, Chhetri has had the honour of being named player of the year four times. He is particularly remembered for his two spectacular goals in the 2011 AFC Asian Cup. He began his professional football career in 2002 and has gone from strength to strength, known as India’s best player in the 2008 AFC Cup.
Sandesh Jhingan
An expert defender, Jhingan was awarded hero of the match in the game against Kenya in the Intercontinental Cup 2018. He plays not only for the national team but for the Kerala Blasters.
Gurpreet Singh Sandhu
The recently named captain of the India national team, Sandhu is a renowned goalkeeper. He plays for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League.
Jeje Lalpekhlua
A professional striker, Lalpekhlua plays for Chennaiyin, and following a knee injury has recovered to gain more confidence in his skills and ability. He was awarded player of the year in 2016.
Pronay Halder
A superb midfielder, Halder made his debut in January 2016, for Mohun Bagan, in a match which they easily won. He has been awarded man of the match twice and has since played for Mumbai City and FC Goa.
Soon, the eyes of the world will be on India’s national football team, as they take centre stage in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.