Shillong, Nov 20: India’s U-23 men’s team had a rough friendly against Thailand on Saturday, losing 4-0 on the latter’s home turf, but it was a memorable evening for one Meghalayan, Ronney Kharbudon (pictured back row second right), who made his debut in national colours.
“Playing for the national team has always been more than a dream…it’s been my purpose,” Ronney said on Instagram yesterday. “Every struggle, every sacrifice, every lesson shaped this moment. Proud, grateful and motivated to keep giving my best for the country”.
He may very well appear for India more after turning in a good performance.
Coach Naushad Moosa introduced fresh faces, Ronney’s being one, to evaluate different aspects. With Muhammad Saheef not in the squad, Ronney was roped in.
To his credit, Ronney, a defender with FC Goa, did an impressive job on debut. He was active in and around the penalty area, often throwing himself into making crucial clearances and winning duels.
His hard work and ability will surely not have gone unnoticed and with Moosa still looking to fill in his best U-23 team, Ronney has strongly put his name forward for consideration.
This friendly was part of India’s preparations for the 20th Asian Games, to be held in Japan next year.
Ronney has been making his mark over the last month or so, representing FC Goa in the home-and-away AFC Champions League 2 fixtures against Al Nassr as well as featuring for the club in the AIFF’s Super Cup.
The 22-year-old defender moved to Goa from Shillong Lajong in July. Ronney appeared in 38 I-League matches for Lajong over two seasons and scored three times.
(All India Football Federation photo)