India Aims for Victory Against Qatar in AFC U23 Qualifiers

The Indian men’s U23 football team faces a pivotal match against hosts Qatar in the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers. The encounter is set for September 6, 2025, at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha. Following a strong start with a 2-0 victory over Bahrain, India looks to build on their momentum in this crucial Group H fixture.

India’s journey in the qualifiers began positively with a decisive win against Bahrain at Suheim Bin Hamad Stadium. Goals from Muhammed Suhail and Chingangbam Shivaldo Singh secured the team’s initial three points. This match marks an important opportunity for India, as success could lead to their first-ever qualification for the continental tournament. The group winners gain direct entry to the tournament in Saudi Arabia, with only the four best runners-up from eleven groups also earning a spot.

Coach Naushad Moosa expressed optimism after the opening match, stating, “It’s always a good thing to start with a win and get those three points.” He emphasized the significance of the upcoming match against Qatar, noting, “That win gave us a lot of hope and belief that if we do well against Qatar, we’ll have the chance to qualify. It’s very important we go forward with a winning mentality.”

Qatar opened their campaign impressively, delivering a staggering 13-0 victory against Brunei Darussalam. This result showcased their formidable attacking capabilities, making them a challenging opponent for the Indian team.

Preparation and Strategy for the Match

Moosa acknowledged the daunting task of facing the hosts, describing Qatar as “probably one of the best teams in Asia that we could face.” He elaborated on Qatar’s playing style, which relies on “short passes, quick switches, and a lot of wing play.” Moosa stressed the need for his players to focus on neutralizing these tactics, indicating that “we cannot afford lapses. We have to be strong and disciplined until the final whistle.”

Reflecting on the team’s preparation, Moosa highlighted the effectiveness of their training regimen, which included a 20-day camp in Bangalore followed by friendly matches in Malaysia. He noted, “The players were aggressive and played like a team, which helped us a lot.” This cohesive effort will be critical against a well-organized Qatari side.

Adaptation to local conditions has also been a focus for the team. Moosa mentioned, “We’ve been here for almost a week, played one game, and trained regularly.” He remains confident that the players have acclimatized to Doha’s weather, stating that the match’s later kick-off time of 20:00 would mitigate any potential impact.

Looking Ahead

Moosa emphasized the broader significance of this campaign for the team’s development. A victory against Qatar would not only enhance their chances of advancing but also contribute to future preparations for upcoming competitions, including the 2026 Asian Games. “Continuity is the key,” he stated, underscoring the need for ongoing training camps and friendly matches.

The coach concluded by praising the team’s spirit following their opening win. “I always tell the players to stay grounded and humble. Tomorrow’s game is the most important one. I’m happy to see the boys are really serious about this game. The team bonding is very strong, and that togetherness is a big strength for us. Hopefully, we’ll get a positive result tomorrow.”

As the match approaches, the Indian U23 team remains focused on their goal of qualification, aware that every match is a step toward a potentially historic achievement.