New Delh: India’s men’s football team will participate in both the upcoming FIFA ASEAN Cup and a high profile friendly against Brazil despite a clash between the two fixtures, the All India Football Federation has confirmed.
The decision was taken during the AIFF Executive Committee meeting on Thursday, following reports that India could withdraw from the FIFA ASEAN Cup because its final day overlaps with the Brazil friendly. There had also been concerns that FIFA would not permit India to field a second string squad in the tournament.
The AIFF has now decided to enter both competitions and plans to select separate squads for the two assignments. The federation will formally inform FIFA about its decision.
The Executive Committee considered the Brazil fixture, which falls during an International Match Window, an important opportunity for Indian footballers to test themselves against one of the most successful teams in world football. Facing Brazil is expected to provide valuable international experience for the players involved.
Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia, however, urged the federation to give greater priority to the FIFA ASEAN Cup. He pointed to the competitive importance of the tournament, which includes several higher ranked Asian teams such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam.
Bhutia also raised concerns about the financial implications of hosting or participating in the Brazil friendly, particularly at a time when the AIFF is facing greater financial pressure.
The federation previously received an annual payment of around Rs 50 crore from Football Sports Development Limited in connection with the Indian Super League. That arrangement ended in December 2025, leaving the AIFF with the challenge of managing its finances without the same revenue stream.
Despite the concerns, the federation has opted to retain both commitments, with separate teams expected to represent India in the two competitions.
The decision gives Indian footballers an opportunity to compete in a competitive regional tournament while also opening the door for another group of players to gain experience against Brazil on the international stage.