Mic cup: Minerva FC to Compete in 2026 in Costa Brava, Spain

The numbers

Minerva Academy Football Club is making headlines as it prepares to represent India in the MIC Cup 2026, a prestigious youth football tournament taking place in Costa Brava, Spain. The tournament, which kicks off on April 1, 2026, features a total of 52 teams competing for a single trophy, highlighting its significance in the world of youth football.

Minerva FC arrived in Spain on March 25, 2026, and is the only Indian team participating in this year’s event. Their first match is scheduled against Boca OC from the USA, marking a crucial moment for the team and Indian football as a whole. The MIC Cup has a rich history, having previously showcased talents like Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Lamine Yamal, making it a platform for young athletes to shine.

In preparation for this tournament, Minerva FC has demonstrated impressive performance in recent competitions. The U-12 team won the MINA Cup in 2022, while the U-13 team claimed victory at the Gothia Cup in Sweden in 2023. Additionally, the U-14 team triumphed in the Dana Cup in Denmark in 2023, scoring an impressive 15 goals in the final. These achievements reflect the academy’s commitment to nurturing young talent and competing at high levels.

Ranjit Bajaj, a key figure in Minerva FC, expressed the broader vision behind their participation, stating, “The ultimate goal is to make the Indian football team better and make them qualify for a senior FIFA World Cup.” This sentiment resonates with the aspirations of many involved in the sport in India, as they strive to elevate the country’s footballing standards.

Moreover, Tony Huidrom, another prominent member of the club, emphasized the importance of such tournaments, saying, “These tournaments are about the whole Indian dream.” This highlights the collective ambition of the team and its supporters to see Indian football gain recognition on the global stage.

As the tournament progresses, Minerva FC will play three group stage matches, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the final round. The matches will be live-streamed on the Minerva Academy YouTube channel, allowing fans to follow the team’s journey closely.

Chetan Tiwari, a player from the team, shared insights about the experience of playing in Spain, noting, “Football is a culture in Spain. The stadiums, the fields, and even the quality of grass, everything is different here.” This reflects the unique challenges and opportunities that come with competing in a country known for its rich football heritage.

As the MIC Cup 2026 approaches, observers are keen to see how Minerva FC will perform against international competition. The excitement surrounding the tournament continues to build, with many hoping that this experience will contribute to the growth of football in India. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific outcomes of the matches, but the anticipation is palpable as the team prepares to take the field.