Dheeraj Singh: The rising star of Indian football

Despite FC Goa’s elimination from the Asian Champions League, Dheeraj Singh was a standout performer for his side. 

FC Goa were the first Indian side to take part in the ACL group stages this year. Having played a total of six matches in Group E, they managed just three points after not picking up a single victory.

A challenging group consisted of Iranian giants Persepolis and Emirati side Al Wahda, with the Guars completing their 2021 ACL campaign with three draws and three defeats.

The AFC Champions League witnessed a talented group of players. Mainly inexperienced, with one of their shining stars being Dheeraj Singh. The teenager made a name for himself on his debut with 26 saves and two clean sheets in five games for the Guars which has earned him high praise throughout his journey in the competition.

Dheeraj, who made only one appearance in 2020, has been regarded as a player with massive potential after his superb display in the FIFA U-17 World Cup. He has became one of the most talked about players after a number of strong displays against some of the biggest teams in the world.

The 20-year-old joined Goa in 2021 after he was signed as a replacement for goalkeeper Mohammed Nawas who is expected to join Mumbai City next season. Despite his struggles, Dheeraj Singh has been making the headlines for his work on the pitch.

The former Kerela Blasters goalkeeper got the recognition he deserved as he was named in the ACL team of the week for his superb performance against Al-Rayyan earning his side’s first clean sheet and their first points on the mark.

8⃣ different clubs represented ?

Introducing the #ACL2021 Team of Matchday One ? pic.twitter.com/bXNNzONB1J

— #ACL2021 (@TheAFCCL) April 16, 2021

In matchday two, FC Goa pulled of another ACL upset as Dheeraj Singh headedly kept Goa in the game.  Al Wahda kept putting the pressure on their opponents but the young Guars goalkeeper stood firm to deny Omar Khrbin in the dying moments of the game and pull of a point blank save.

The Red Giant’s looked frustrated at the end of the game after missed opportunities but the Guars took confidence from an excellent performance.

FC Goa coach Juan Ferrando described the teenager as a “superman” after his superb display.

In matchday three of the ACL, Persepolis handed the Indian side their first defeat but goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh was sensational throughout, registering five crucial saves which including a penalty spot kick.

Dheeraj had the best save percentage for any player who has played a minimum of three matches in the ACL. He faced the most shots and made the most saves, eight more than any other player during his five appearances,

Despite the youngster not featuring in matchday four, the Guars were left to despair when they conceded four in the second meeting against the Iranian giants which gave them a slim chance of progressing in the ACL round of 16.

For Dheeraj Singh, despite saving the day for Goa many times during the game, Al Rayyan struck late on to deny the Guars their first ever historic ACL win. It all came after a fumble from the youngster which left Ali Ferydoon to capitalise from close range.

Dheeraj came to FC Goa’s rescue once again in the last game of the Asian Champions League. However in the second-half, Al Wahda broke the deadlock before wrapping up the victory as Dheeraj was replaced late on with injury.

The teenager has had a tough start to his career but after superb performances throughout this season, it won’t be too long till a number of European clubs have their eyes on the goalkeeper. A player with huge ambition and talent will be on the cards for many top level teams.