Tri-Nation Tournament: Manipur geared up as India take on Myanmar in opening fixture

India football team train at the Khuman Lampak Stadium on Wednesday. Image Courtesy: @IndianFootball

Xtra Time Web Desk: The state of Manipur is set to host its first-ever international football tournament, and football enthusiasts in the state must be thrilled. The tri-nation tournament, featuring India, Myanmar, and Kyrgyzstan, will kick off at the Khuman Lampak Stadium on Wednesday, with India taking on Myanmar in the opening game.

India’s captain Sunil Chhetri, fresh from leading Bengaluru FC to the final of the Indian Super League, will lead the Indian team against a Myanmar side that has lost nine out of its last 11 games. India’s head coach Igor Stimac has emphasized the importance of this tournament in preparing for the 2023 Asian Cup and will expect the young players in the squad to seize the opportunity to prove themselves on the international stage.

The tournament is a significant milestone for Manipur, which has been a major supplier of football talent to the Indian national team over the years. While several players in the Indian team have played domestic tournaments in Manipur, this will be the first time the state is hosting an international tournament. The enthusiasm for football in Manipur is evident, with Chinglensana Konsham welcoming the teams to his home state.

However, it’s not just football that captures the imagination of sports fans in Manipur. As midfielder Suresh Wangjam points out, the state’s interest in sports extends beyond football. This tournament provides a platform to showcase the state’s love for sports and its potential to emerge as a hub for various sports in India.

Overall, the tri-nation tournament in Manipur promises to be an exciting event for football fans in the state and a crucial opportunity for the Indian team to prepare for future tournaments.