Kolkata, November 15: India will travel to Bangladesh for their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round Group C match on November 18, from 7:30 PM at National Stadium, Dhaka. While the Blue Tigers are mathematically out of contention for qualification based on current points, the fixture remains crucial for testing new faces and building depth for the upcoming cycle.
Head coach Khalid Jamil has named a mixed squad for AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers against Bangladesh, featuring experienced leaders and promising young talent. Goalkeepers Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Hrithik Tiwari and Sahil form the last line of defence, while the backline includes Akash Mishra, Anwar Ali, Bikash Yumnam, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Jay Gupta, Pramveer, Rahul Bheke and Sandesh Jhingan.
The midfield options comprise Brison Fernandes, Lalremtluanga Fanai, Macarton Louis Nickson, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Nikhil Prabhu and Suresh Singh Wangjam. Up front, India will rely on Edmund Lalrindika, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Mohammed Sanan, Rahim Ali, Ryan Williams and Vikram Partap Singh.
Forward Ryan Williams, who recently received his Indian passport, will travel with the squad. He also wore the Blue jersey for the first time and made his debut in the friendly against Bhutan two days ago. However, his involvement in the official qualifier depends on clearance from Football Australia along with final approvals from FIFA and AFC.
Meanwhile, defender Abneet Bharti, who was widely expected to earn a call-up, misses out due to club clearance issues. His Bolivian side, Academia del Balompie Boliviano, did not grant permission for him to join the national camp, ruling him out of the trip.
Despite the qualification setback, India’s outing in Bangladesh provides a valuable opportunity to test combinations, integrate newcomers and refine Jamil’s approach as the team prepares for a crucial new chapter.
The AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers campaign hasn’t delivered the results India hoped for, but despite the limited one-week preparation window, the squad now aims to put up a strong, spirited performance against Bangladesh, a chance to reclaim rhythm, confidence and direction as a new phase begins.
Broadcast Details AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Bangladesh vs India
Venue: National Stadium, Dhaka
Date: 18th November 2025
Kickoff time: 7:30pm IST
Live at: Fancode
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