Head coach Bibiano Fernandes has revealed the 23-member Indian squad for the men’s AFC U-17 Asian Cup, set to kick off in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on May 5. The Blue Colts are currently in Doha, where they played two closed-door friendly matches against Qatar, finishing 1-1 and 0-0. The team will travel to Jeddah on May 3 as they gear up for the tournament.
India finds itself in Group D alongside Australia and Uzbekistan, following North Korea’s withdrawal from the competition, reducing the group to three teams. The top two sides from Group D will advance to the quarter-finals, which also guarantees a spot in the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2026. India’s crucial group stage matches are against Australia on May 6 and Uzbekistan on May 10.
The squad features a balanced mix of talent across all positions. The goalkeepers are Alok Nishad, Manashjyoti Baruah, and Rajrup Sarkar. Defenders include Abhishek Kumar Mondal, Indra Rana Magar, Korou Meitei Konthoujam, Lawmsangzuala, Lesvin Rebelo, Md Aimaan Bin, and Shubham Poonia. The midfield is composed of Dallalmuon Gangte, Denny Singh Wangkhem, Diamond Singh Thokchom, Moosa Ashiq Sofi, and Nitishkumar Meitei Yengkhom. Forwards consist of Adil Aman A, Azlaan Shah Kh, Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, Heeranganba Seram, Rahan Ahmed, Raj Singh Wahengbam, Washington Singh Ngangom, and Yuvraj Kadam.
With the tournament serving as a pathway to the FIFA U-17 World Cup, all eyes will be on the young Indian side as they aim to make a strong impression against formidable opponents.
