Khalid Jamil Reveals 23-Man Indian Squad for AFC Asian Cup Qualifier Against Hong Kong
Synopsis
In a crucial announcement, Khalid Jamil has revealed a 23-member squad for India's final AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Hong Kong. This match serves as more than just a game, marking a step towards future talent development.
Key Takeaways
Khalid Jamil announces a 23-member squad for the final AFC Asian Cup qualifier.
Training camp begins in Kochi on March 28.
Players from the U20 and U23 setups are being integrated.
The 2027 AFC Asian Cup will feature 24 teams in Saudi Arabia.
New Delhi, March 24 (NationPress) The head coach of the Indian senior men's national football team, Khalid Jamil, has officially announced a 23-member squad for the upcoming final qualifier match of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 against Hong Kong, China, scheduled for March 31.
The Indian team will kick off their training camp in Kochi on Tuesday, with 20 players and staff already present.
Defensive player Anwar Ali, midfielder Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, and forward Edmund Lalrindika, who recently participated in their last match for the Indian Super League 2025-26 against Mohammedan Sporting Club on March 23, will join the camp later today.
Although India has been eliminated from the Asian Cup qualification, this match will serve as a crucial stepping stone for future endeavors.
Coach Khalid Jamil expressed, “This presents us with a wonderful chance to build for the future. We have numerous talented players emerging from the U20 and U23 national squads, currently competing in the SAFF U20 Championship in the Maldives and the U23 Tri-Nation tournament in Arunachal Pradesh. Our assistant coach, Mahesh, is leading the U20s, which will help integrate them into our senior team framework.”
The 2027 AFC Asian Cup marks the 19th edition of this prestigious tournament, the international men's football championship for Asia, organized by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). It will feature 24 national teams following the expansion in 2019 and will take place in Saudi Arabia from January 7 to February 5, 2027.
The Indian squad for the qualifiers includes:
Goalkeepers: Albino Gomes, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Vishal Kaith.
Defenders: Abhishek Singh Tekcham, Akash Mishra, Anwar Ali, Bijoy Varghese, Nikhil Poojary, Rahul Bheke, Roshan Singh Naorem, Sandesh Jhingan.
Midfielders: Ashique Kuruniyan, Danish Farooq Bhat, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Lalengmawia Ralte, Sahal Abdul Samad.
Forwards: Edmund Lalrindika, Farukh Choudhary, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Liston Colaco, Manvir Singh, Rahim Ali, Ryan Williams.
Head coach: Khalid Jamil
Match details:
India vs Hong Kong (AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round)
Date: March 31, 2026, at 19:00 IST
Location: Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kochi
Point of View
It is evident that Khalid Jamil's squad selection reflects a forward-thinking approach, prioritizing the integration of young talents into the senior team. This match, although not impactful for qualification, symbolizes a commitment to the future of Indian football.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the head coach of the Indian men's football team?
The head coach is Khalid Jamil.
When is the AFC Asian Cup qualifier match against Hong Kong?
The match is scheduled for March 31, 2026.
Where will the match take place?
The match will be held at Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kochi.
What is the significance of this match for India?
It serves as preparation for the future, despite India being eliminated from the Asian Cup qualification.
How many teams will participate in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup?
24 national teams will participate in the tournament.
