MARGAO
Legendary midfielder Mauricio Afonso is happy that India will be playing in the Merdeka Cup after over two decades. Afonso played in the Merdeka Cup in 1986.
"This is an important stage for the Indian team as they are only a few months away from the Asian Cup early next year. I am sure the Merdeka tournament will serve as a good outing for them to prepare," said Mauricio Afonso. "The matches will go a long way in helping us to perform," he added.
Camilo Gonsalves, a former India forward who was a member of the 1986 Merdeka squad, was delighted with the development. "India have grown in soccer. It will help India a great deal in preparing for the Asian Cup campaign ahead," said Gonsalves.
Former India custodian Braamanand Shankwalkar highlighted the need for continued improvements, particularly at the grassroots. “Indian football has grown over the years, especially with the emergence of the three titles on the trot and the increased popularity of the sport among the youth,” he said. “However, there are still improvements that need to be made, particularly at the grassroots level. We need to focus on developing talent at the grassroots level and providing young footballers with better facilities and training," said Shankhwalkar.
"India returning to play the Merdeka after 22 years is a piece of great news. I congratulate AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey for making it possible. I have played in Merdeka and know how competitive the tournament is. It will help India a great deal in preparing for the Asian Cup campaign," said Shankhwalkar.
