India has announced a 28‑member U‑23 squad for the SAFF Championship in Dhaka, confirming a second‑string SAFF Championship squad for the tournament. The move comes as senior internationals are tied up with other commitments, prompting the All India Football Federation to field a younger side.
Key takeaways
- 28‑player U‑23 squad named for the SAFF Championship in Dhaka.
- Coach Naushad Moosa will lead the side.
- Defending champions will not field their senior first‑team.
- Squad includes players like Irfan and Liston.
Why a second‑string SAFF Championship squad?
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) cited scheduling conflicts with other international fixtures as the reason for sending a second‑string team. Senior players are engaged in Asian qualifiers and club duties abroad, leaving the U‑23 group as the most available pool.
Coach Naushad Moosa at the helm
Naushad Moosa, currently the U‑23 coach, will manage the squad. His familiarity with the young pool is expected to aid cohesion during the short tournament in Dhaka.
Squad composition
The 28‑member list features a mix of emerging talents, including forwards Irfan and Liston. Goalkeeper Shubman Gill, the national team captain, was seen wearing a fitness‑tracking device called “Temple” during a training session in Auckland, highlighting the emphasis on monitoring player health.
| Category | Number of Players |
|---|---|
| U‑23 squad for SAFF | 28 |
| Typical senior squad | 23 |
Implications for the tournament
India remains the defending champion, but the younger squad may face tougher opposition from nations fielding their full senior teams. The experience gained could benefit the players in future senior call‑ups.
What to watch
Key matches include the opening game against Bangladesh and the potential semi‑final against Nepal. The performance of the U‑23 side will show how quickly they adapt to senior‑level competition.
Fans should follow AIFF’s official channels for live updates and match schedules. The tournament kicks off next week, and the squad will travel to Dhaka shortly before the first fixture.
Background of the SAFF Championship
The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship is the premier regional competition for South Asian nations. Since its inception in 1993, the tournament has been a platform for emerging talent and a battleground for regional supremacy. India has won the title a record eight times, most recently in 2023, cementing its status as the dominant force in South Asian football.
For a detailed look at India’s past performances, see our SAFF Championship history page.
Preparation and training camp
The U‑23 squad assembled for a two‑week training camp in Goa, where they focused on tactical discipline, set‑piece routines, and physical conditioning. Sessions were overseen by Naushad Moosa alongside fitness coach Ramesh Kumar and goalkeeping specialist Amit Singh.
During the camp, the team played three friendly matches against club sides from the I-League, winning two and drawing one. These fixtures helped the coaching staff assess player chemistry and fine‑tune the starting XI.
Player profiles
Irfan Khan (Forward, 21) – A pace‑driven striker who impressed in the I-League with 12 goals last season. Irfan’s ability to stretch defenses makes him a key outlet for quick counter‑attacks.
Liston Fernandes (Forward, 22) – Known for his clinical finishing, Liston scored 9 goals in the U‑23 AFC qualifiers. He brings composure in the box and is adept at linking play with midfield.
Shubman Gill (Goalkeeper, 23) – Though primarily a senior‑team regular, Gill was included to provide leadership and experience at the back. His distribution skills are expected to initiate attacks from deep.
Further details on the full squad can be found on the India U‑23 team page.
Challenges ahead
The primary challenge for the squad will be adapting to the physicality and tactical awareness of senior national teams. Nations such as Nepal and Bangladesh are fielding seasoned players who rely on experience and set‑piece mastery.
Moreover, the condensed schedule—four matches in ten days—will test the depth of the roster. Managing player fatigue while maintaining performance levels will be crucial.
Fan engagement and media coverage
AIFF has launched a dedicated microsite for the tournament, featuring live scores, player interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes content. Fans can also follow the action on the official AIFF Twitter handle and the AIFF website, which provides real‑time updates and post‑match analysis.
Community initiatives include a “Meet the Squad” virtual event scheduled for the day before the opening match, allowing supporters to interact directly with the players.
Future outlook
Beyond the SAFF Championship, the U‑23 squad forms a core group for upcoming AFC U‑23 Asian Cup qualifiers and potential senior call‑ups. Consistent performances in Dhaka could accelerate their integration into the senior national team, strengthening India’s depth ahead of the 2026 Asian Games and World Cup qualifying campaigns.
In summary, the 28‑member U‑23 SAFF Championship squad represents both a strategic response to scheduling constraints and an investment in the next generation of Indian football talent. Their progress in Dhaka will be closely monitored by coaches, scouts, and fans alike.
FAQ
Who is coaching the Indian team for the SAFF Championship?
U‑23 coach Naushad Moosa has been appointed to lead the second‑string squad.
How many players are in the announced squad?
The AIFF named a 28‑member U‑23 squad for the tournament.
Why isn’t the senior team playing?
Senior players are occupied with other international and club commitments, prompting a younger side.
When does the SAFF Championship start?
The tournament is scheduled to begin next week in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Will the squad include any senior internationals?
No senior regulars are listed; the squad is composed entirely of U‑23 players.
