India's Futsal Team Set to Compete in SAFF Championship 2026

The Indian men's futsal team is ready to kick off their campaign at the SAFF Futsal Championship 2026, facing Bangladesh in their first match. Head coach Reza Kordi aims to establish India as a competitive force in South Asian futsal, building on their recent successes. With a strong squad and valuable international experience, the team is focused on executing their strategies and making their supporters proud. As they prepare for a series of matches against other South Asian nations, the players are determined to showcase their growth and commitment on the court.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 13, 2026, 01:58 IST

India's Futsal Journey Begins

The Indian men's futsal team is gearing up for their opening match against Bangladesh at the SAFF Futsal Championship 2026, scheduled for Wednesday at Nonthaburi Stadium in Thailand, as reported by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

Head coach Reza Kordi emphasized the team's goal to be competitive in every match, enhance their playing style, and position India as a formidable contender in South Asian futsal during a pre-tournament press briefing.

Kordi, who took the helm during the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Qualifiers last September, expressed gratitude towards the organizers and shared insights into the team's preparation. He noted, "I want to thank SAFF and the Football Association of Thailand for being exceptional hosts. Our preparations began about a month ago in Bengaluru, and we arrived here a week prior to our first match, where we played two friendly matches. I believe our players are ready in terms of tactics, physical fitness, and mental strength for the competition."

Following their match against Bangladesh, India will face Nepal on January 18, Maldives on January 20, Bhutan on January 22, Sri Lanka on January 24, and Pakistan on January 26, all at Nonthaburi Stadium. The top team at the conclusion of the seven matches will be crowned the inaugural SAFF men's futsal champions.

In September, the Futsal Tigers made history by securing their first international win, defeating Mongolia 3-0. Kordi highlighted the team's evolution, noting that eight players from the Asian Cup qualifiers have been selected for the SAFF championship, including Aleef Rahman Mollah, Ozen Silva, Lalsangkima, Anmol Adhikari, K Roluahpuia, Nikhil Mali, Seaon D'souza, and Jonathan Lalrawngbawla.

"Compared to the Asian Cup qualifiers, the team is now more tactically organized and physically prepared. The players have a better grasp of futsal's demands," Kordi remarked.

Captain Nikhil Mali shared his coach's enthusiasm, highlighting the importance of their recent international experiences. "I want to thank SAFF and Thailand for hosting this historic tournament. Our team has gained valuable experience since the Asian qualifiers, and we had a productive training camp in India under our esteemed coach. Our focus is to apply what we've learned during the tournament, and everyone is feeling confident going in," he stated.

Mali also conveyed a message to fans back home as they prepare for the tournament in Thailand: "We promise to play with all our heart and pride, giving our best on the court. I'm sure our supporters will be cheering for us, and we aim to deliver a strong performance for them."