25-Member Squad Announced for India’s FIFA World Cup and AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

Indian national team head coach Igor Stimac finalized the 25-member squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Preliminary Joint Qualification matches. Previously selecting a provisional 35-player squad, Stimac made the final cuts before the team left for Abha, Saudi Arabia. The Blue Tigers are set to face Afghanistan in the next two qualification matches, with the away game scheduled for March 22 and the home fixture on March 26 in Guwahati’s Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium.

Currently occupying the third spot in the points table, India is level on points with Kuwait but trails on goal difference. In their opening matches, India secured a 1-0 victory against Kuwait before suffering a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Qatar. With six points, Qatar leads the standings, while Afghanistan has yet to earn a point, conceding 12 goals in their two matches.

Some new faces have made it into the final squad, with Jay Gupta and Imran Khan earning spots while Lalthathanga Khawlhring (Puitea) was left out. The 25-member squad includes key players like Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Sunil Chhetri, and Anirudh Thapa. The squad features a mix of experienced players and promising talents, aiming to secure crucial points in the upcoming matches.

The squad announcement was met with enthusiasm on social media, with the Indian Football Team sharing the news via Twitter, showcasing the determination and spirit of the Blue Tigers. As India prepares to face Afghanistan in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, anticipation and excitement among fans continue to build. Stimac and his team are focused on delivering strong performances and advancing in the qualification campaign, aiming to secure a spot in the prestigious tournaments.