Kolkata : Naushad Moosa’s India team has been hit by challenges of player shortages amidst ongoing SAFF Championship 2026.
India started their campaign with 3-2 narrow win over Pakistan where Moosa had only 17 players to choose from. It was expected that fresh 10 players would join the Indian team ahead of next game following break in ISL 2026-27 but fresh challenges arise due to injuries, key players returning home with club commitments and others called up for New Zealand tour (November 12 and 15).
AIFF had an agreement with Mumbai City FC to release 3 players – Farukh Choudhary, Valpuia, Noufal after the game against Pakistan.
On other hand, Ronney Wilson (FC Goa) and Suresh Singh (Bengaluru FC) picked up injuries in ISL games playing for respective clubs. Indian Senior Head coach didn’t get Anwar Ali, Apuia so he called up Md Suhail, Bijoy Varghese, Liston Colaco who were all in SAFF squad. Even Edmund Laldindika’s ruling out made Jamil to call Md Sanan as replacement.
Several stars from India’s win against Pakistan will not feature as a result in the further stage of tournament.
Since SAFF is played outside FIFA International Window, organizers allowed teams to register 28 players instead of regular 23 with no replacement being allowed.
However, on positive note, India have received 6 new players ahead of the Maldives clash. Chennaiyin FC’s Irfan Edwards and Brison Fernandes headline the incoming group. The duo impressed in their club’s 5-3 win against East Bengal and will now get an opportunity to strengthen India’s attacking options. East Bengal players PV Vishnu and Sandip Mandi have also been called up as per reports while Abdul Rabeeh and Macarton Louis Nickson of NorthEast United FC complete the six additions.
India started their campaign with 3-2 win over arch rivals Pakistan. Despite scoring 3 goals in first half, India conceded 2 in final nervous moments of second half. India will next play against Maldives on November 11 for Group B final game.
Top 2 teams in the group will qualify for semi finals and India under Moosa will eye for that berth. Currently, Pakistan top the group stage with India sitting at number 2.
