New Delhi: AIFF Executive Committee meets, confirms India’s participation in Brazil friendly and FIFA ASEAN Cup
Key decisions from the meeting
The All India Football Federation’s Executive Committee convened at the Football House in New Delhi on Thursday, August 6, 2026. The meeting, chaired by AIFF President Shri Kalyan Chaubey, addressed several important matters concerning Indian football. Among the attendees were Treasurer Mr Kipa Ajay, Deputy Secretary General Mr M Satyanarayan, and other members including Mr Lalnghinglova Hmar, Mr Menla Ethenpa, Mr Mohan Lal, Mr Neibou Sekhose, Mr Syed Husnain Naqvi, Mr Syed Imtiaz Hussain, Mr Deepak Sharma, Ms Valanka Alemao, Mr Vijay Bali, Ms Thongam Tababi Devi, Mr Shabbir Ali, Mr Bhaichung Bhutia, and Mr Climax Lawrence.
A significant decision made during the meeting was the confirmation of India’s participation in two upcoming international competitions. This includes a men’s international friendly against Brazil, scheduled for October 3, 2026, in Kolkata, and the FIFA ASEAN Cup in Indonesia, set to run from September 24 to October 3, 2026. The Executive Committee views the match against Brazil as a valuable opportunity for Indian players to gain exposure against a strong footballing nation during the FIFA International Match Window. The AIFF plans to formally notify FIFA of India’s participation in both events, fielding separate squads for each competition.
The Executive Committee also reviewed the preparations for the Indian Super League 2026-27 season, following the adoption of a new club-led commercial model. Updates were provided on the progress made by participating clubs and the Federation in operational planning. Jamshedpur FC has been granted additional time, until August 12, 2026, to reconsider its decision.
Appointments and competition format
Following a recommendation from the AIFF Technical Committee, the Executive Committee approved the appointment of Bibiano Fernandes as the head coach for the India U15 men’s national team, pending his acceptance. This team is set to participate in the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup & Festival in Azerbaijan in October. Ranjit Bajaj was approved as the team manager. The tournament regulations allow for a contingent of 20 members, comprising six staff and 14 players.
However, a proposal from the Competition Committee for a revamped three-tier format for the Santosh Trophy and the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy was not approved. Concerns were raised regarding competitive opportunities and player development. The Competitions Committee has been asked to revise the proposal for future consideration. Consequently, the format for the Santosh Trophy and the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy will remain unchanged for the 2026-27 season.
The Executive Committee also gave its approval to the AIFF’s budget for the period of June 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027.
Compliance and player perspectives
The AIFF Secretariat informed the Executive Committee about notifications from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, concerning the adoption of the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, and its associated rules. This is to ensure compliance with the new regulatory framework. Member Associations with upcoming elections have been requested to meet these compliance requirements by October 20, 2026.
The news of playing Brazil has generated considerable excitement among Indian players. India captain Sandesh Jhingan expressed his enthusiasm for competing on a significant stage against a top opponent. He highlighted the importance of such matches for gaining valuable experience and potentially improving India’s world ranking. Akash Mishra, a defender for Mumbai City, also noted that a single game can inspire many and demonstrate the progress of Indian football.
Lallianzuala Chhangte, who has extensive experience with the national team, initially found the news hard to believe. He recalled growing up watching football legends like Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, Kaka, and Neymar, emphasizing the special opportunity to share the pitch with Brazil. He stressed the importance of the Indian players giving their utmost for the country, believing that a positive result could significantly impact Indian football. The match against Brazil is scheduled for October 3 at the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata.
Source: the-aiff.com
