The Indian men’s national football team, aiming for a record-extending tenth SAFF Championship title, faces a challenging path after being drawn alongside Pakistan and Maldives in Group B of the upcoming SAFF Championship 2026. The draw, conducted in Thimphu, Bhutan, on Saturday, August 1, 2026, sets the stage for a highly anticipated tournament in Dhaka, Bangladesh, from November 4 to 17.
India’s Group Revealed
Group Stage Draw
The 15th edition of the sub-continental tournament will see seven teams initially divided into two groups. Group A features hosts Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, with Nepal’s inclusion pending the lifting of a FIFA suspension by September 1, 2026. India, Maldives, and Pakistan form Group B, promising fierce competition from the outset.
India’s Campaign Ahead
The Blue Tigers will kick off their quest for glory with a high-stakes encounter against Maldives on November 5. Six days later, on November 11, India will face Pakistan in their second group stage fixture. All matches will be held at a yet-to-be-specified venue in Dhaka, Bangladesh, with specific kick-off times expected to be announced closer to the tournament.
India’s SAFF Championship 2026 Fixtures:
- November 5, 2026: India vs Maldives
- November 11, 2026: India vs Pakistan
Head-to-Head Dominance
Historically, India holds a significant advantage over both their Group B opponents. Against Pakistan, India has won 16 of their 25 meetings, drawing seven and losing just two. Their last clash in the SAFF Championship 2023 saw India secure a commanding 4-0 victory.
India’s record against Maldives is equally impressive, with 13 wins, two draws, and three losses in 18 encounters. The most recent meeting, a friendly in March 2025, ended in a 3-0 win for India.
Recent Form and Title Aspirations
India, the defending champions, have lifted the SAFF Championship trophy on nine previous occasions, including the 2023 edition where they defeated Kuwait in the final. While their recent overall form in international friendlies has been described as ‘Poor’ with two wins, three draws, and five losses, the team will be looking to regain momentum for the crucial regional tournament. Maldives has had a ‘Very Poor’ run with one win, one draw, and eight losses in recent international friendlies, while Pakistan’s form has been ‘Average’ with three wins, two draws, and five losses.
As the Indian squad prepares for the SAFF Championship 2026, the draw against familiar rivals promises an electrifying start to their campaign. With a strong historical record and the aim of securing a historic tenth title, India will be focused on a dominant performance in Dhaka.