India Squad Announced for SAFF Championship 2026: Naushad Moosa to Coach Blue Tigers

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming SAFF Championship 2026, scheduled to take place in Dhaka from November 5 to 17.

Naushad Moosa, the head coach of the India U-23 men's team, is slated to manage the squad for the tournament. He will be assisted by Bibiano Fernandes, who recently coached the India U-15 men's team at the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival Azerbaijan 2026. The selection features a blend of players with senior team experience and those transitioning from age-group teams, as the primary senior men's squad is scheduled to travel to New Zealand for friendlies in Auckland and Christchurch.

Tournament Group and Fixtures

India has been drawn into Group B alongside the Maldives and Pakistan.

• November 5, 3:00 PM IST: India vs Pakistan
• November 11, 3:00 PM IST: India vs Maldives

Full Squad List

• Defenders: Abdul Rabeeh, Bijoy Varghese, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Khaiminthang Lhungdim, Muhammed Uvais, Nathan Rodrigues, Ronney Kharbudon, Sandip Mandi
• Midfielders: Abhishek Suryavanshi, Adison Singh Thokchom, Brison Fernandes, Ebindas Yesudasan, Farukh Choudhary, Macarton Nickson, Manglenthang Kipgen, Nikhil Prabhu, Noufal PN, Ricky John Shabong, Suresh Singh Wangjam
• Forwards: Irfan Yadwad, Liston Colaco, Muhammad Suhail, Vishnu PV, Suhail Ahmad Bhat

Verification and Practical Implications

Fans and stakeholders can verify the official squad announcement and match schedule by checking the All India Football Federation's official website or official media channels. As match timings and tournament details are subject to official updates, verifying announcements directly through governing body portals ensures accurate tracking.