Mon Nov 18 18:22:41 UTC 2024: **India Faces Malaysia in Crucial Friendly Match**

HYDERABAD, INDIA – India’s men’s football team will face Malaysia in a friendly match on Monday at the GMC Balayogi Gachibowli Stadium, hoping to end a disappointing year on a high note. The match marks a crucial opportunity for India, currently ranked 125th globally, to secure their first victory of 2024. The Blue Tigers have endured a challenging year, with a record of six losses and four draws in ten matches played. This includes a 1-1 draw against Vietnam last month. The team is also facing the aftermath of Sunil Chhetri’s retirement and the departure of head coach Igor Stimac following poor performances in the AFC Asian Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Manolo Marquez now leads the team, aiming for a win to avoid a winless year. The match will feature debutant Irfan Yadwad and the return of Sandesh Jhingan for India. Malaysia will field Syihan Hazmi in goal, with a team including notable players like Sergio Aguero and Dion Cools.

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