India U17 Men's Football Team Set for Crucial Friendlies in Thailand
The Indian U17 men's national football team, known as the Blue Colts, is gearing up for a series of high-stakes friendly matches in Lopburi, Thailand. According to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) website, the team will face off against Thailand, Indonesia, and the Republic of Korea between March 25 and 31, 2026. These games are a critical part of India's preparations for the upcoming AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026, which will be held later that year.
Match Schedule and Details
The friendlies will be played behind closed doors, ensuring a focused environment for the young squad. The schedule is as follows:
- March 25, 2026: India vs Thailand at 17:30 IST
- March 28, 2026: India vs Indonesia at 17:30 IST
- March 31, 2026: India vs the Republic of Korea at 15:30 IST
The Blue Colts arrived in Lopburi on Sunday, March 22, 2026, to acclimatize and train ahead of these crucial encounters. This tour follows an active year of international friendlies, where the team has already played six matches—two each against Tajikistan in Goa, Turkiye in Antalya, and Myanmar in Yangon.
Squad and Coaching Staff
Head coach Bibiano Fernandes has selected a 24-member squad for the Thailand friendlies, supported by assistant coach Subham Rabha and goalkeeping coach Parshuram Salwadi. The squad includes:
- Goalkeepers: Alok Nishad, Manashjyoti Baruah, Rajrup Sarkar
- Defenders: Abhishek Kumar Mondal, Indra Rana Magar, Korou Meitei Konthoujam, Lawmsangzuala, Md Aimaan Bin, Moosa Ashiq Sofi, Shubham Poonia, Zoramdinthara
- Midfielders: Dallalmuon Gangte, Denny Singh Wangkhem, Diamond Singh Thokchom, Mukundo Singh Ningthoujam, Nitishkumar Meitei Yengkhom
- Forwards: Adil Aman A, Azlaan Shah Kh, Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, Heeranganba Seram, Lesvin Rebelo, Rahan Ahmed, Washington Singh Ngangom, Yuvraj Kadam
Broader Context: AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026
These friendlies are not just standalone events but integral to India's strategy for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026. In the tournament, India has been drawn into Group D, where they will face formidable opponents:
- May 6, 2026: India vs Australia
- May 10, 2026: India vs Uzbekistan
- May 13, 2026: India vs DPR Korea
The matches against Thailand, Indonesia, and the Republic of Korea will provide valuable experience and help fine-tune tactics ahead of this challenging group stage. With a focus on development and performance, the Blue Colts aim to make a strong impression in both the friendlies and the continental championship.
