Merdeka Cup 2023 India vs Malaysia: Where and how to watch in India

The Indian Men's football team is set to challenge hosts Malaysia in the semi-finals of the Merdeka Cup 2023 at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on Friday.

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This is the Indian's 18th appearance in this prestigious competition and their return to the tournament after an absence of 21 years. India has a special association with the Merdeka Cup as the team has a long history with the event.

According to AIFF.com, India have participated in the Merdeka Cup in Malaysia more times than any other international competition since gaining independence, a total of 17 times. Malaysia and India have a long-standing rivalry; Malaysia has been India's biggest rival with 31 matches. The Blue Tigers will therefore be keen to showcase their abilities and establish themselves.

However, Malaysia, who are considered favorites to win the championship on home soil, will pose a tough challenge for India. With a squad of talented players, the Malaysian team has improved significantly in recent years. Despite being the lowest ranked team in this edition of the Merdeka Cup, they will be motivated to showcase their potential.

Merdeka Cup 2023 was initially a four-team affair with Palestine vs Lebanon scheduled to play the second semi-final. However, both the West Asian teams pulled out of the tournament and Tajikistan were invited.

Where to watch Merdeka Cup 2023 live in India

Live streaming of the Merdeka Cup 2023 football tournament will be available on the Indian Football YouTube channel. The tournament will be broadcast live on Eurosport TV channel in India.

Merdeka Cup 2023 schedule

October 13, Friday: Semi-final: Malaysia vs India - 6:30 PM IST

October 17, Tuesday: Final: Malaysia/India vs Tajikistan - 6:30 PM IST

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Merdeka Cup 2023: India squad

Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Amrinder Singh, Vishal Kaith

Midfielders: Suresh Singh, Anirudh Thapa, Rohit Kumar, Sahal Abdul Samad, Brandon Fernandes, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Udanta Singh, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Liston Colaco, Nandhakumar Sekar

Forwards: Sunil Chhetri, Manvir Singh

Defenders: Nikhil Poojary, Roshan Singh, Sandesh Jhingan, Anwar Ali, Mehtab Singh, Lalchungnunga, Akash Mishra, Subhasish Bose