The Indian U-17 men’s football team is set to play two friendly matches against the China PR U-17 team as part of their preparation for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2026 qualifying matches. These games will take place on October 8 and 10 at the National Football Training Centre in Xianghe, near Beijing. The AFC qualifying matches are scheduled to be held in Ahmedabad this November.
Under the guidance of head coach Bibiano Fernandes, the Young Blue Colts recently won the SAFF U-17 Championship. The team will depart for China on October 6 after a training camp in Goa. Key players in the 22-member squad include Aasim Parvez Nazar, Hrishikesh Charan Manavathi, and captain Abrar Ali Baba. Both matches will kick off at 4:30 PM IST, but real-time streaming will not be available since they will be held in a closed stadium.
These friendlies are considered crucial for the Indian youth footballers as they prepare to face strong opponents like IR Iran, Lebanon, Chinese Taipei, and Palestine in the upcoming AFC qualifying matches. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) believes these matches will enhance team combinations and build on the recent regional success.