Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 12:16pm on 13 Aug 2026,Thursday Sports
India have withdrawn from the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup to focus on their high-profile friendly against 5-time world champions Brazil in Kolkata on October 3. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) said it was not possible to play both competitions. India were initially scheduled to participate in the ASEAN Cup from September 21 to October 6, alongside Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore in Division 1 Group A. The AIFF had considered sending a separate squad but dropped the plan. Instead, India will look to arrange other friendlies during the international window. Cabo Verde and Iran are reportedly possible opponents, but neither match has been confirmed. (PC: India Today)
