India vs Jordan International Friendly: The unpicked Indian XI

Michael Soosairaj was a surprise omission from the squad
Michael Soosairaj was a surprise omission from the squad

#11 Mohammad Nawaz (FC Goa)

Mohammad Nawaz has made the most number of saves in the ISL so far (Image: ISL)
Mohammad Nawaz has made the most number of saves in the ISL so far (Image: ISL)

Unlike most of the leagues in Europe where the coach prefers experienced goalkeeper to guard the goal, Sergio Lobera entrusted his side with 18-year-old Mohammad Nawaz. His immaturity did cost FC Goa a goal against Northeast United FC when he collected the ball outside the penalty box, thinking the referee had blown the whistle for offside, only for Gallego to dink it past him from a quickly taken free-kick.

However, he made amends for it in the later games and even saved a penalty from Emiliano Alfaro. The Manipuri made a total of 16 saves, the joint highest in ISL this season alongside Francis Dorronsaro, out of 25 shots he faced on target.

The Indian No 1 spot is held firmly by Bengaluru FC custodian Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. Mohammad Nawaz has to up his game a lot to even come close to being a threat to him. But, he is our first-choice goalkeeper of the Unpicked XI.

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