Macarton receives first national team call-up for Bangladesh

India's national football team has called up midfielder Macarton Louis Nickson for the first time. This decision comes as the team prepares for its AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Bangladesh. Macarton plays for NorthEast United FC and has shown strong performances in the Indian Super League (ISL). His team has made the playoffs for the first time since 2020. The 21-year-old joined NorthEast United in 2023 from FC Bengaluru United. In the ISL, Macarton had a successful season, appearing in 14 games last year. This season, he has played in 20 matches and has scored two goals along with one assist. His coach, Juan Pedro Benali, has praised him, highlighting his talent but also reminding him to stay humble. Alongside Macarton, coach Manolo Marquez has also added winger Udanta Singh to the squad. Singh replaces Brandon Fernandes, who got injured during a recent match against the Maldives. India will face Bangladesh on Tuesday in Shillong.