Bibiano Fernandes announces 22-member India U17 squad for friendlies against China

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Published at :October 5, 2025 at 5:16 PM

Modified at :October 5, 2025 at 5:16 PM

Bibiano Fernandes announces India U17 squad for friendlies against China

The Blue Colts are preparing for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers.

As revealed by Khel Now earlier, the Indian U17 men’s team will travel to Beijing to play two closed-door friendly matches against China PR U17 on October 8 and 10, 2025.

After being crowned SAFF U17 champions just over a week ago, Bibiano Fernandes’ boys continued their training camp in Goa and will arrive in China on the evening of Monday, October 6.

As revealed by Khel Now earlier, India U17 men will play two closed-door friendlies against China PR on October 8 & 10! Take a look at the 22-member squad for the matches! #IndianFootball pic.twitter.com/tHC7IdsVdy
— Khel Now (@KhelNow) October 5, 2025

Asian qualifiers on the cards

Both matches against the hosts will be played at the National Football Training Centre in Xianghe, around 80 kilometres from China’s capital Beijing. The games will kick off at 16:30 IST, and will not be streamed live.

The friendlies form part of India U17 football team‘s preparations for the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, scheduled in November in Ahmedabad, where the Blue Colts will meet Palestine, Chinese Taipei, Lebanon, and IR Iran.

Also Read: India U17 set to tour China for two friendlies as AFC U17 qualifiers loom

India U17 men’s 22-member squad for China friendlies in October 2025

Goalkeepers: Manashjyoti Baruah, Maroof Shafi, Rajrup Sarkar.

Defenders: Indra Rana Magar, Konthoujam Korou Meitei, Lawmsangzuala, Md Aimaan Bin, Yumnam Maldino Singh.

Midfielders: Abrar Ali Baba, Dallalmuon Gangte, Ningthoujam Mukundo Singh, Thanggoumang Touthang, Thokchom Diamond Singh, Yengkhom Nitishkumar Meitei.

Forwards: Aazim Parveez Najar, Azlaan Shah Kh, Heeranganba Seram, Hrishikesh Charan Manavathi, Lesvin Rebelo, Rahan Ahmed, Wangkheirakpam Gunleiba.

Head coach: Bibiano Fernandes

When will India U17 play against China?

The Blue Colts U17 will play two friendlies against China on October 8 and 10.

When will India begin the AFC U17 Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign?

The Indian U17 team will begin its AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign on November 22.

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Navtej Vatsa

Navtej is all about narrating stories of human endeavour shaped by sporting excellence, from 22 yards to lush green pitches and buzzing arenas. With a background in broadcasting, he has a keen eye for compelling narratives that keep readers hooked. He primarily covers football and cricket, capturing the magic of two of the world’s most beloved sports.