Shillong, Aug 16: Two promising footballers from Meghalaya, Manbhakupar Malngiang and Banlamkupar Rynjah, have earned a place in the Indian U-17 men’s national football team. This is the latest in a series of achievements for the state, following Lionel Daryl Rymmei’s selection for the U-20 team.
The duo were chosen after impressing during a national camp held in Srinagar. The U-17 team is gearing up for a busy schedule, with the SAFF U-17 Men’s Championship in Bhutan in September and the AFC U-17 Asian Cup Qualifiers in Thailand in October. As part of their preparation, the team will play two friendly matches against Indonesia in Bali later this month.
Manbhakupar, who is associated with Lah Bet FC, has previous national team experience, having been part of the Indian squad that clinched the SAFF U-16 Championship last year. Banlamkupar, representing Shillong Lajong FC, is primarily a forward but has been listed as a midfielder by the All India Football Federation.
India has been drawn with Maldives and Bangladesh in Group A of the SAFF tournament, which will be held in Bhutan from September 18 to 28.
Following the tournament, the team will continue its training in Srinagar for the AFC qualifiers in October.
The selection of these two young players is a significant milestone for Meghalaya football and a testament to the state’s growing talent pool.
