Brandon out, Macarton, Udanta in: Three-ways Manolo Marquez could set-up his team in Brandon’s absence!

The Blue Tigers are preparing for a crucial matchup against Bangladesh in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers after defeating Maldives 3-0 in an international friendly in their last game. There have been a few changes, with injured Chhangte and Brandon withdrawing, and Northeast United’s Macarton and Goa’s Udanta Singh announced as replacements by Manolo Marquez.

This is Macarton’s first-ever call-up to the national team after his fantastic season with the Highlanders. The same is true for Udanta Singh, who is enjoying a fantastic year and has been an important part of Manolo Marquez’s FC Goa this season, playing both as a winger and full-back. Let’s look at three possible combinations for the Blue Tigers versus Bangladesh in the absence of Brandon Fernandes.

Option 1: Mahesh in for Brandon

Mahesh appears to be the most likely candidate for the number 10/secondary striker position, sitting behind Sunil Chhetri and playing nice passes to the wingers and the 40-year-old kid up front. Mahesh has performed in that capacity for his club East Bengal this season, positioning himself in the center and providing an effective creative edge moving forward.

Naorem Mahesh Singh in training for the Indian National team.

Mahesh’s move from the wings to the midfield creates a position on the right flank in the starting 11. Udanta may slot in there, as he has done more frequently for the Gaurs this season. Irfan Yadwad, who has also put up some strong performances from the right-wing slot at the club level, and young Boris might also be options.

Option 2: Farukh in for Brandon

The second choice is what happened in the last game when Brandon Fernandes was stretched out in the middle of the first half. Farukh can be deployed anywhere in the front line thanks to his versatility. Farukh, a highly intelligent player who can capitalize on his physical power to cling onto the ball, has the potential to create a lot of space for Sunil Chhetri and other wingers.

Farukh Choudhary in training for the Indian National team.

Farukh was deployed in a similar position versus Vietnam last year, partnering clubmate Irfan Yadwad up front. Farukh has the ability to hang onto the ball and generate space, but his final balls are frequently below par. Also, he is not recognised for his scoring ability, despite scoring against Vietnam last year. Although he can be a useful substitute, it is uncertain if he will be started.

See: Bangladesh captain Jamal Bhuyan takes a dig at Sunil Chhetri.

Option 3: Macarton/Ayush Chhetri in for Brandon

Although Macarton’s prospects of making his Indian National team debut by starting right away are remote, we can still anticipate Manolo Marquez doing this later in the game, ideally when we are ahead. Even when chasing goals, Macarton’s long-range efforts may provide a significant goal threat.

Ayush Chhetri made his debut for the Indian National team against Maldives.

Since Manolo Marquez has used Ayush Chhetri in that position for FC Goa this season, it is possible that the young midfielder would fill Brandon’s position. Ayush made an excellent debut against the Maldives and has placed himself in contention for a spot in the starting 11 against Bangladesh. It appears to be seen where he plays!

Match Details:

The AFC Asian Cup Qualifier between India and Bangladesh will take place on March 25 at 7 p.m. IST at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. The match will be televised live on Star Sports, and JioHotstar will be streaming it!

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