The Indian men’s U23 football team is making their mark in the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers as they prepare for their second group stage match in Qatar. After a confident 2-0 win against Bahrain in their opening game, the Blue Colts now face the host nation, Qatar, on Saturday at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium.
This upcoming match is crucial for India’s hopes of qualifying for the AFC U23 Asian Cup for the first time ever. Top teams in each group automatically qualify for the tournament in Saudi Arabia in 2026, and only the four best second-placed teams across all 11 groups will also make it through. Beating Qatar, who are considered strong contenders, could significantly boost India’s chances.
India’s head coach, Moosa, expressed his optimism after their first victory. “Starting with a win is always good; it gives us confidence,” he said. “If we do well against Qatar, we have a real shot at qualifying. We need to keep a winning mindset.”
Qatar began their campaign with an incredible 13-0 victory over Brunei, showing their attacking strength. Moosa knows it won’t be easy. “Qatar is one of the best teams in Asia, and they play very differently from Bahrain. They depend on quick passing, wing play, and fast switches,” he explained. “We must focus on stopping their movement from the sides.”
Talking about India’s preparation, Moosa highlighted the hard work behind their success. The team trained in Bangalore for 20 days and played friendly matches in Malaysia against Iraq. “The players worked well together, showing lot of energy and teamwork, which helped us in the first game. Against Qatar, we can’t afford any mistakes. We need to stay disciplined until the final whistle.”
While Qatar has the advantage of playing at home, Moosa said the Indian players are adapting well. “We’ve been in Doha for almost a week, played a game, and trained regularly. The weather is not an issue anymore, and since the match starts at 8 pm, it should be comfortable for us.”
Moosa also emphasized how important this campaign is for the team’s future. “This tournament helps us grow as a team. A win could mean more training camps, friendly matches, and better preparation for other big tournaments like the 2026 Asian Games. Consistency is key.”
He praised the spirit of his team too. “The players are focused and united. We remind them to stay humble and grounded. Tomorrow’s game is very important, and I am proud of the team’s strong bond. We hope to get a positive result and keep our hopes alive.”
With a big test ahead against Qatar, the Indian U23 team is hopeful and ready to give their best. Fans will be watching closely as they aim to make history and secure their spot in the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026.
