India’s legendary striker, Sunil Chhetri, has been named in the probables list for the AFC Asian Cup 2025 qualifiers, set to be played in June. Chhetri, a key figure in India’s footballing landscape, will lead the 28-member squad, alongside other prominent players, as India faces challenging opponents like Hong Kong and Thailand.
Chhetri’s Continued Role in India’s Football Success
Despite being 40 years old, Chhetri’s inclusion in the squad reflects the trust and reliance placed on his leadership. The veteran forward had initially retired last year after more than two decades of international football, but returned to action to assist the national team during crucial moments in the qualifiers against Bangladesh and in a friendly match against the Maldives.
The AFC Asian Cup 2025 Qualifiers
India is grouped in Group C for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, alongside Bangladesh, Hong Kong China, and Singapore. India will face Hong Kong on June 10 at the Kai Tak Sports Park in Kowloon City. The Blue Tigers will also play a friendly against Thailand on June 4 in Bangkok, which will serve as an important tune-up ahead of the qualifiers.
India’s Probables List for AFC Asian Cup 2025 Qualifiers
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) released the list of probables on May 7, 2025. The squad will assemble in Kolkata on May 18 for a 10-day training camp. Here’s a look at the full probables list:
- Goalkeepers: Hrithik Tiwari, Vishal Kaith, Gurmeet Singh Chahal, Amrinder Singh
- Defenders: Naorem Roshan Singh, Rahul Bheke, Konsham Chinglensana Singh, Anwar Ali, Thangjam Boris Singh, Sandesh Jhingan, Asish Rai, Subhasish Bose, Mehtab Singh, Tekcham Abhishek Singh, Nikhil Prabhu
- Midfielders: Suresh Singh Wangjam, Naorem Mahesh Singh, Ayush Dev Chhetri, Udanta Singh Kumam, Lalengmawia Ralte, Liston Colaco, Ashique Kuruniyan, Brandon Fernandes
- Forwards: Sunil Chhetri, Irfan Yadwad, Manvir Singh, Suhail Ahmad Bhat, Lallianzuala Chhangte
Importance of the Training Camp and Friendly Matches
As part of their preparations, the Blue Tigers will have a 10-day training camp in Kolkata starting May 18. This camp will be critical in fine-tuning the squad ahead of their important clash against Thailand on June 4. The friendly against Thailand will serve as a vital opportunity to assess the team’s readiness before traveling to Hong Kong for the qualifier.
For more on India’s preparations and their performance in international football, visit the official AIFF website.
Conclusion
With the June qualifiers around the corner, India’s football fans are eagerly awaiting to see how Chhetri and his teammates perform in the AFC Asian Cup 2025 qualifiers. The upcoming training camp and the friendly match against Thailand are crucial steps in preparing for their match against Hong Kong. Stay tuned for more updates as India’s road to the Asian Cup 2025 progresses.
Check out our post on India’s last AFC Asian Cup performance – India’s AFC Asian Cup Journey: A Look Back
