India to begin Hero Intercontinental Cup camp around May 15

The Blue Tigers will regroup in Bhubaneshwar after a victorious run in the Hero Tri-Nation tournament.

The Indian national football team will begin their preparation for the Hero Intercontinental Cup with a camp in Bhubaneshwar around May 15th. Up to 40 players will be called up to the national team camp. Igor Stimac's men were last in action during the Hero Tri-Nation Tournament, in which they beat Kyrgyz Republic 2-0 in the final to lift the trophy.

Goals from Sunil Chhetri and Sandesh Jhingan propelled the Blue Tigers to victory in the decider. Earlier in the same competition, they got the better of Myanmar 1-0 through Anirudh Thapa's winner.

About the Intercontinental Cup

Started in 2018, the Hero Intercontinental Cup is a tournament launched by the All India Football Federation (AIFF). Two editions have been held to date. India won the inaugural edition, defeating Kenya, New Zealand, and Chinese Taipei.

The hosts however finished bottom in 2019, as North Korea emerged victorious with a victory over Tajikistan. Syria finished in third place. Sunil Chhetri is the top scorer in the tournament with 11 goals.

The 2023 edition of the Hero Intercontinental Cup will take place in Bhubaneshwar from June 9th to June 18th. The four teams participating are Lebanon (FIFA rank 99), Mongolia (FIFA rank 183), and Vanuatu FIFA rank 164).

India are currently on a five-match win streak at home and will want to extend their promising displays. Youngsters such as Naorem Mahesh Singh have fit into the set-up with ease and will wish for more chances.