India likely to pull out of FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 after Brazil friendly announcement
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is considering withdrawing from the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 to accommodate a high-profile friendly match against Brazil in Kolkata. The decision has sparked internal debate, with former captain Bhaichung Bhutia opposing the move.
Why it matters
The potential withdrawal highlights the tension between commercial opportunities in sports and the development of national teams through competitive tournament participation.
AIFF expected to take a final call soon, as October 3’s blockbuster against Brazil creates a fixture clash The announcement of India vs Brazil in Kolkata on October 3, 2026, has sent Indian football into a frenzy. Within minutes of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirming the fixture, social media was flooded with reactions as fans celebrated the prospect of watching the five-time FIFA World Cup winners take on the Blue Tigers on Indian soil for the first time. However, while the glamour friendly has generated unprecedented excitement, it is also set to have its first major casualty.
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