Five players return to India squad for Brazil, Uruguay
Coach Khalid Jamil recalls five players, including Sahal Abdul Samad and Anirudh Thapa, to the 26-man Indian national team squad for September-October
India head coach Khalid Jamil has named a 26-man squad featuring five returning players for high-profile friendlies against Brazil, Uruguay, and Panama in the September-October international window. The Blue Tigers will face the five-time world champions Brazil, two-time champions Uruguay, and CONCACAF side Panama.
India's form has been poor, with just one win in 2026 against Hong Kong. The team failed to qualify for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 and finished last in the Unity Cup 2026 after losses to Jamaica and Zimbabwe. The upcoming matches present a major challenge and an opportunity for redemption.
The Returning Quintet
The report highlights five players making their comeback to the senior national team setup ahead of these fixtures.
Sahal Abdul Samad
Sahal Abdul Samad is noted as one of India's most creative midfielders. He scored the winning goal against East Bengal in a Durand Cup opener and netted a first-half hat-trick against CISF Protectors in the same 2026 tournament. His quick combination play and ability to turn under pressure are considered vital assets. The source describes him as a "big match player" whose experience will be important.
Anirudh Thapa
Veteran midfielder Anirudh Thapa is returning after a consistent season with Mohun Bagan under Sergio Lobera. The 28-year-old featured in nearly every game, strengthening the midfield with defensive resilience. Thapa brings tactical flexibility, a high work rate, and leadership experience, having worn the captain's armband multiple times for the national team.
The Defensive Recalls
Three defenders are among those recalled by coach Jamil.
Goalkeeper Prabsukhan Gill, 25, was a key part of the East Bengal team that recently won the Indian Super League and Durand Cup. He made key penalty saves in the Durand Cup semi-final and shootout. While likely to start on the bench, his form could earn him a start against Panama.
Left-back Jay Gupta secured his place in East Bengal folklore by scoring a last-minute headed equalizer against Kuwait's Al-Arabi to propel his club into the AFC Champions League 2 group stages. The Pune-born defender made 10 appearances last season and offers a rare blend of height and strength. His potential test would be handling the pace of South American wingers.
Fullback Tekcham Abhishek Singh, 21, is described as arguably one of the best Indian fullbacks in modern football. His move to Mohun Bagan for a reported 6 crore rupees made him one of the country's most expensive young defenders. He uses raw speed to push high up the pitch and has shown maturity in ground duels and aerial clearances.
The squad announcement comes after India remained winless in its last two friendlies against Tajikistan. The report states the global football fraternity's eye will be on India as star-studded Brazil and Uruguay sides are set to play on Indian soil.
