India Names 23-Member Squad for AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers
Young Blue Colts ready to chase AFC Asian Cup qualification in Ahmedabad.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Friday announced a 23-member India squad for the upcoming 2026 AFC Under-17 Men’s Asian Cup Qualifiers, scheduled to begin on Saturday at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad. The tournament marks a crucial step in India’s quest to secure a spot at next year’s AFC U17 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia and ultimately, qualification for the FIFA U17 World Cup 2026 in Qatar.
Head coach Bibiano Fernandes, known for his success with India’s youth teams in recent years, expressed confidence in the group’s preparation. India finds itself placed in a challenging group alongside Palestine, Chinese Taipei, Lebanon, and Iran. The Blue Colts will open their campaign against Palestine on November 22, followed by matches against Chinese Taipei (Nov 26), Lebanon (Nov 28), and Iran (Nov 30). The group winner will advance to the final tournament in 2026.
The squad features a balanced mix of talent across departments. Goalkeepers Manashjyoti Baruah, Maroof Shafi, and Rajrup Sarkar will handle duties between the posts, while defenders Abhishek Kumar Mondal, Ankur Rajbagh, and Korou Meitei Konthoujam are expected to anchor the backline. Midfield creativity comes from players like Dallalmuon Gangte and Diamond Singh Thokchom, while the attacking front will be led by promising forwards Aazim Parveez Najar, Jasir Khan, and Heeranganba Seram.
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Bibiano Fernandes emphasized that the team has undergone rigorous training and several preparatory friendlies to fine-tune coordination and fitness levels. He noted that the focus will be on maintaining composure, exploiting set-piece opportunities, and building from the back against physically stronger opponents. The young squad has already drawn attention for its disciplined approach and dynamic playing style, characteristics Fernandes hopes will translate into strong performances during the qualifiers.
As India takes the field in Ahmedabad, expectations are high among fans eager to see the next generation of footballers shine on the continental stage. A successful campaign would not only earn qualification for the AFC U17 Asian Cup but also strengthen India’s growing reputation in youth football across Asia.
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