India Unveils 23-Player Roster for U17 AFC Qualifiers

Post by : Mara Rahim

India’s U17 football team is gearing up for the 2026 AFC Under-17 Men’s Asian Cup Qualifiers, which commence this Saturday at the EKA Arena in Ahmedabad. Under the leadership of head coach Bibiano Fernandes, the squad comprises 23 players aimed at clinching a spot in the final tournament scheduled in Saudi Arabia next year. This tournament also doubles as a qualification route for the FIFA U17 World Cup set to take place in Qatar.

India finds itself in a competitive group alongside four nations. The opening match will pit them against Palestine on November 22, followed by encounters with Chinese Taipei on November 26, Lebanon on November 28, and Iran on November 30. With only the group leader advancing, each game is crucial for India’s aspirations.

The squad features a well-rounded selection of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards. Included among the goalkeepers are Manashjyoti Baruah, Maroof Shafi, and Rajrup Sarkar, each poised to deliver essential defensive strength.

The defenders tasked with fortifying India’s backline are Abhishek Kumar Mondal, Ankur Rajbagh, Indra Rana Magar, Korou Meitei Konthoujam, Lawmsangzuala, Md Aimaan Bin, and Shubham Poonia. Their combination of agility and experience will be vital in thwarting opposing teams.

In the midfield, India has selected a dynamic group prepared to dictate play and create chances. The midfielders consist of Dallalmuon Gangte, Denny Singh Wangkhem, Diamond Singh Thokchom, Mukundo Singh Ningthoujam, Nitishkumar Meitei Yengkhom, and Thonggoumong Touthang, who will aim to strike a balance between defense and attack.

The coaching staff expresses confidence in this squad’s ability to perform under pressure while emphasizing the tournament as a platform to cultivate future stars for Indian football. Head coach Bibiano Fernandes noted that every player in the 23-member roster was selected based on their performance, fitness, and potential, highlighting the importance of teamwork and strategy.

This tournament represents a prime opportunity for India to display its emerging talent on an international stage, exposing players to varied styles and strategies from abroad. The qualifiers are expected to be fiercely contested, with each team vying for a spot in Saudi Arabia for the final tournament.

The AFC U17 Qualifiers are a crucial component of India’s ongoing mission to bolster its youth football programs and prepare future generations for international competitions. The selected players have shown great motivation and have been rigorously training to ensure they deliver their best during the qualifiers.

Fans can look forward to thrilling matches as India strives for progression to the next round, aiming to make a significant impact in the Asian football arena. The team’s thorough preparation coupled with the talent and commitment of the young players enhances India’s prospects against their group adversaries.