Naushad Moosa Announces India U23 Squad for Tri-Nation Friendlies in Yupia
India U23 men's team head coach Naushad Moosa has officially named a 24-member squad for the upcoming U23 Tri-Nation Friendlies. The matches are set to take place against Bhutan and Tajikistan on March 28 and 31, 2026, in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh. This selection marks a crucial step in preparing the young Indian football talents for international competition.
Tournament Details and Schedule
The friendly tournament is scheduled within the March FIFA International Match Window, providing a valuable platform for player development. Bhutan and Tajikistan will kick off the event with the opening game on March 25. All matches will be held at the Golden Jubilee Stadium, with kick-off times set for 19:00 IST, as confirmed by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) website.
This event holds historical significance as it will only be the second international football tournament to be hosted in Arunachal Pradesh. It follows the SAFF U19 Championship 2025, which was also held at the same venue, highlighting the region's growing role in Indian football.
Complete India U23 Squad Breakdown
The 24-member squad features a mix of promising goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, carefully chosen by coach Moosa and his staff. The team composition is as follows:
- Goalkeepers: Dipesh Chauhan, Mohanraj K, Priyansh Dubey.
- Defenders: Dippendu Biswas, Harsh Palande, Pramveer, Ricky Meetei Haobam, Ronney Kharbudon, Sanatomba Singh Yanglem, Subham Bhattacharya.
- Midfielders: Ebindas Yesudasan, Lalremtluanga Fanai, Lalrinliana Hnamte, Macarton Louis Nickson, Mohammed Sanan K, Shivaldo Singh Chingangbam, Tomba Singh Haobam, Vinith Venkatesh, Zothanpuia.
- Forwards: Adison Singh Thokchom, Lalthankima, Muhammed Ajsal, Suhail Ahmad Bhat, Thoi Singh Huidrom.
The coaching staff includes head coach Naushad Moosa, assisted by Noel Wilson as the assistant coach and Gumpe Rime serving as the goalkeeping coach. Their expertise will be instrumental in guiding the squad through this competitive tournament.
Match Schedule for the Tri-Nation Friendlies
The full schedule for the U23 Tri-Nation Friendlies is outlined below, ensuring fans can follow the action closely:
- March 25: Bhutan vs Tajikistan
- March 28: India vs Bhutan
- March 31: Tajikistan vs India
These matches are expected to provide intense competition and serve as a key testing ground for India's emerging football stars ahead of future international engagements.
