India's Football Team Faces Bangladesh in SAFF Championship Opener

India, 16 December 2025 — The Indian national football team is set to face Bangladesh in their opening match of the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship 2025, taking place in Kochi, India. The match is scheduled for the evening of December 17, marking the start of the tournament hosted in India. The Indian team, led by coach Igor Štimac, is looking to capitalize on home advantage to secure a strong start in the competition.
India, the defending champions, have been drawn in Group A alongside Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. The team aims to retain their title, having won the previous edition of the tournament in 2023. The SAFF Championship serves as a key regional tournament for South Asian countries, offering a platform for emerging talent and fostering regional football development.
Coach Štimac expressed confidence in his squad, highlighting the blend of experienced players and young talent. "Playing at home gives us a significant boost, and the team is eager to perform well," he stated in a pre-match press conference.
The tournament will run until December 30, with matches held at various venues across India. The Indian squad's performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts as they seek to maintain their dominance in South Asian football.
This year's championship is particularly significant as it marks the 30th anniversary of the SAFF Championship, underscoring its role in promoting football in the region.