The Indian U17 men’s football team, fresh off their triumphant SAFF U17 Championship victory, is set to take on China U17 in two closed-door friendly matches on October 8 and 10, 2025, as announced by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The matches, to be held at the National Football Training Centre in Xianghe, approximately 80 kilometers from Beijing, mark a crucial step in the team’s preparations for the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers. Under the guidance of head coach Bibiano Fernandes, the Blue Colts are poised to test their mettle against a formidable opponent on international soil.
Following their SAFF U17 title win just over a week ago, the Indian U17 squad has been honing their skills at a training camp in Goa. The team will depart for China on the evening of October 6, arriving in Beijing to fine-tune their strategies before the friendlies. These matches are designed to provide valuable match experience and help the young players adapt to high-pressure environments. The closed-door nature of the games ensures a focused setting, allowing both teams to experiment with tactics and formations without external distractions.
The friendlies are a vital component of India’s preparation for the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, scheduled for November 2025 in Ahmedabad. In the qualifiers, India will face tough competition from Palestine, Chinese Taipei, Lebanon, and Iran. The matches against China U17 will serve as an opportunity for the Blue Colts to gauge their strengths against a strong Asian side, refining their gameplay and building team cohesion. Coach Fernandes has emphasized the importance of such international exposure for the development of his young squad, many of whom are expected to play pivotal roles in India’s future football campaigns.
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The Indian U17 squad is a balanced mix of talent, featuring goalkeepers Aadil, Manashjyoti Baruah, Maroof Shafi, and Rajrup Sarkar; defenders like Indra Rana Magar and Yumnam Maldino Singh; midfielders such as Abrar Ali Baba and Ningthoujam Mukundo Singh; and forwards including Aazim Parveez Najar and Wangkheirakpam Gunleiba. This diverse lineup reflects the depth of talent in Indian youth football, with players ready to showcase their skills on an international stage. The team’s performance in China will be closely watched by fans and analysts, as it offers a glimpse into the future of Indian football.
As the Blue Colts prepare to take on China, these friendlies represent more than just practice matches—they are a chance to build momentum and confidence ahead of the critical Asian Cup qualifiers. With Coach Fernandes at the helm and a talented roster, the Indian U17 team is determined to make a mark. The outcomes of these matches will provide valuable insights into the squad’s readiness and set the tone for their campaign in Ahmedabad, where they aim to secure a spot in the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026.
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