Kalinga Super Cup: Chhangte Hails Inter Kashi's Lalrindika as Future Star for India

Key Takeaways

Edmund Lalrindika is expected to become a top Indian player.
His performance against Mumbai City FC is highly anticipated.
Teamwork will be crucial for Inter Kashi to succeed.
Chhangte expresses strong belief in his teammates' capabilities.
Edmund has made significant contributions in recent matches.

New Delhi, April 25 (NationPress) Captain Lallianzuala Chhangte is confident that Inter Kashi forward Edmund Lalrindika is set to become one of the top Indian players in the coming years, adding that he will pose a significant challenge for Mumbai City FC in their Kalinga Super Cup quarterfinal on Sunday.

With limited options available for Indian forwards in the market, ISL clubs are keenly observing his performance against Mumbai, especially after his standout display in the penalty shootout victory over Bengaluru FC, the ISL runners-up, in the Round of 16.

While Chhangte commended Edmund’s skills both on and off the field, he also expressed strong faith in his team.

"I’m truly delighted for him; he has earned this opportunity. He is destined for greatness as an Indian player. I have no doubt about it. It will indeed be a challenge for us, yet I trust my teammates, particularly our defenders, to manage him effectively for the entire match. Our focus will be on understanding their strengths and weaknesses, and what matters most is our teamwork. If we collaborate effectively, we will have an edge in this match."

Edmund, who recently celebrated his 26th birthday, joined Inter Kashi in September 2023 and has made a significant impact with six goals and nine assists in all competitions, playing every match and helping them secure a commendable fourth-place finish in the I-League. This performance earned him a call-up to the national team in May 2024, where he made his international debut on June 6 in a goalless draw against Kuwait. During the 2024-25 season, the Mizoram forward scored four goals and provided five assists, contributing to the club's second-place finish, just one point behind leaders Churchill Brothers.

Mehtab Singh, a defender for Mumbai City FC, who has shared the field with Edmund at East Bengal FC, also praised him and noted that facing a player of Edmund’s caliber adds positive pressure on the team.

“He is an excellent player; we played together at East Bengal before joining the national camp. He is a wonderful person and has made significant strides as a player. His performance at the national camp was impressive. We approach each game individually. His success is beneficial for us, as it provides a solid challenge that enhances our focus. We know we must put forth our best effort,” Mehtab remarked to IANS.