Indian Men's Football Team Begins Preparations for Asian Cup Qualifiers

India, 7 January 2026 — The Indian men's football team has commenced its preparatory camp in Bhubaneswar ahead of the upcoming Asian Cup qualifiers. The camp, which started on January 6, will allow the team to fine-tune their strategies and build cohesion under the guidance of head coach Igor Štimac.

The squad, featuring notable players such as Sunil Chhetri and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, is set to train intensively over the next few weeks. The qualifiers are scheduled to begin in early February, with India aiming to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.

Štimac expressed confidence in his team's ability to perform well, citing the blend of experienced players and young talents. The coach emphasized the importance of these sessions in improving team dynamics and adapting to different tactical approaches.

Bhubaneswar was chosen as the venue for the camp due to its excellent facilities and conducive weather conditions. The team will play several practice matches against local clubs to assess their readiness before heading into the qualifiers.

India's performance in these qualifiers is crucial, as it can significantly boost the country's standing in Asian football. The team aims to build on its recent successes and continue its growth on the continental stage.