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Hit: Ashique Kuruniyan
The youngster is touted as the best talent that FC Pune City have ever produced. After his short stint with Villareal B, Kuruniyan got more maturity and now makes regular appearances in the national team.
Just a few days ago against Jordan, he was introduced as a second-half substitute and he alone changed the complexion of the game. He provided the attacking solidity which India was missing till then. His inspiring performance was praised by the coach too. All this happened despite the fact that he was one among the seven players who were stuck in Kuwait Airport for 32 hours!
So, whenever Kuruniyan takes the field, something is expected from him. On Wednesday, the Mallapuram-born was in his usual best. He was constantly threatening from the right flank with his raw pace and Robin Gurung had to endure a tough time to keep him quiet. He has good peripheral vision and can use the wide angle of the pitch.
He was always there whenever Pune attacked and tried desperately to make a contribution. He could’ve registered his name on the score sheet but his left-footed screamer from 22 yards hit the woodwork in the 17th minute.
