What squad has Naushad Moosa selected for the AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers?
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Synopsis
India's U23 men's national team is gearing up for the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers in Doha, Qatar, under the leadership of coach Naushad Moosa. The squad features 23 talented players, ready to make their mark starting with a crucial match against Bahrain.
Key Takeaways
- Naushad Moosa has announced a 23-member squad for the qualifiers.
- The team aims to secure qualification for the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026.
- India's first match is against Bahrain on September 3.
- Recent friendlies against Iraq provided valuable experience.
- Focus on playing quality football and minimizing goals conceded.
New Delhi, Aug 31 (NationPress) The head coach of the India U23 men’s national team, Naushad Moosa, unveiled the 23-member squad on Sunday that will compete in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers taking place in Doha, Qatar.
India is placed in Group H of the qualifiers, where they will face Bahrain on September 3, the hosts Qatar on September 6, and Brunei Darussalam on September 9. The top team from each group and the four best second-placed teams across 11 groups will secure a spot in the AFC U23 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia 2026.
“The key is to take it one match at a time. The first game (against Bahrain) is crucial as it will help us gauge our current standing. Securing those three points is vital,” Moosa stated to the AIFF's official website.
“Playing quality football is essential. If we perform well, positive outcomes will follow. Another focus will be on minimizing goals conceded and maintaining concentration,” he added.
The India U23 squad had previously engaged in two closed-door friendlies with the Iraq U23 team in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Despite losing both matches (1-2 and 1-3), Moosa remains optimistic that the Blue Colts have gained confidence from these experiences.
“Going up against Iraq was incredibly beneficial for the team. They are among the top teams, and despite the losses, our performance was promising. The key takeaway is that the players demonstrated character and have strengthened their belief in their capabilities,” Moosa expressed.
The India U23 squad arrived in Doha, Qatar on August 30 and conducted their first training session that evening.
India's squad for the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers:
Goalkeepers: Sahil, Mohd Arbaz, Dipesh Chauhan
Defenders: Bikash Yumnam, Pramveer, Muhammed Saheef Areesinte Purakkal, Harsh Arun Palande, Subham Bhattacharya, Ricky Meetei Haobam
Midfielders: Soham Naveen Varshneya, Lalrinliana Hnamte, Mohammed Aimen, Vibin Mohanan, Mohammed Sanan K, Chingangbam Shivaldo Singh, Ayush Dev Chhetri, Macarton Louis Nickson, Lalremtluanga Fanai, Vinith Venkatesh
Forwards: Parthib Sundar Gogoi, Muhammed Suhail, Sreekuttan MS, Sahil Harijan
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the strategic preparations made by the India U23 men's national team under coach Naushad Moosa. The carefully selected squad reflects a commitment to nurturing young talent, and their approach of focusing on one match at a time showcases a mature understanding of competitive sports. The dedication to improving through friendly matches indicates a forward-thinking strategy that aligns with the nation's aspirations in football.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the head coach of the India U23 team?
The head coach of the India U23 men's national team is Naushad Moosa.
When does India play their first match in the qualifiers?
India's first match in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers is against Bahrain on September 3.
How many teams will qualify for the AFC U23 Asian Cup?
The group winners and the four best second-placed teams from 11 groups will qualify for the AFC U23 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia 2026.
What was the result of the friendly matches against Iraq?
India U23 lost both friendly matches against Iraq, with scores of 1-2 and 1-3.
Where is the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers being held?
The AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers are being held in Doha, Qatar.
