New Delhi is buzzing with anticipation as the Indian U-17 men’s football team gears up for two crucial friendly matches against Myanmar on March 3 and 5 in Yangon. This strategic move comes as the Blue Colts intensify preparations for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026, a tournament that promises fierce competition and valuable qualification spots for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
The young Indian squad, under the guidance of coach Bibiano Fernandes, has already notched up significant international exposure this year. They’ve played four friendlies, including double headers against Tajikistan in Goa and Turkey in Antalya. Returning from Turkey, the team dove straight back into rigorous training in Goa, honing their skills for the upcoming challenges.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced that the team will depart for Myanmar’s capital on February 28. Like India, Myanmar has also secured qualification for the Asian Cup, topping Group C in the qualifiers ahead of Oman, Syria, Afghanistan, and Nepal. This matchup offers both sides a perfect testing ground.
India finds itself in Group D of the Asian Cup, drawn against powerhouses Australia on May 6, Uzbekistan on May 10, and Korea on May 13. The tournament, featuring Asia’s top 16 U-17 teams, will be held across four venues near Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. Group winners and runners-up advance to the quarterfinals, earning direct tickets to the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup.
A special clause adds intrigue: Qatar, automatic qualifiers as World Cup hosts, if they reach the quarterfinals, opens a spot for the best third-placed team. Other groups pit Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Thailand, and Myanmar in Group A, while Japan, Indonesia, China, and Qatar battle in Group B.
India’s qualification for this prestigious 21st edition of the AFC U-17 Championship underscores their rising prowess in youth football. Organized annually by the Asian Football Confederation, it’s a cornerstone event for under-17 national teams across the continent. These friendlies against Myanmar are more than games; they’re pivotal steps in building a squad ready to shine on the continental stage and beyond.