New Delhi: AIFF Executive Committee meets, confirms India’s participation in Brazil friendly

By Arjun Nair / 06.08.2026

By Arjun Nair — 6 August 2026 — 3 min read

Key Decisions from the Meeting

The All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) Executive Committee convened at the Football House in New Delhi on Thursday, August 6, 2026. Chaired by AIFF President Shri Kalyan Chaubey, the meeting addressed several important matters concerning Indian football. Among the attendees were Treasurer Mr Kipa Ajay, Deputy Secretary General Mr M Satyanarayan, and other members including Mr Lalnghinglova Hmar, Mr Menla Ethenpa, Mr Mohan Lal, Mr Neibou Sekhose, Mr Syed Husnain Naqvi, Mr Syed Imtiaz Hussain, Mr Deepak Sharma, Ms Valanka Alemao, Mr Vijay Bali, Ms Thongam Tababi Devi, Mr Shabbir Ali, Mr Bhaichung Bhutia, and Mr Climax Lawrence.

A significant decision made during the meeting was the confirmation of India’s participation in two upcoming international events. India will play a men’s international friendly against five-time FIFA World champions Brazil in Kolkata on October 3, 2026. Additionally, India will compete in the FIFA ASEAN Cup in Indonesia from September 24 to October 3, 2026. The Executive Committee acknowledged the match against Brazil, scheduled during the FIFA International Match Window, as a valuable opportunity for Indian players to gain exposure against one of the world’s top footballing nations. The AIFF plans to officially inform FIFA that India will field separate squads for the Brazil friendly and the FIFA ASEAN Cup.

Preparations and Appointments

The Executive Committee also reviewed the preparations for the Indian Super League 2026-27 season, which will operate under a new club-led commercial model. Members received updates on the operational planning progress made by both the participating clubs and the Federation. Jamshedpur FC has been granted an extension until August 12, 2026, to reconsider a previous decision.

Following a recommendation from the AIFF Technical Committee, the Executive Committee approved the appointment of Bibiano Fernandes as the head coach for the India U15 men’s national team. This appointment is contingent on his acceptance, and he is slated to lead the team in the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup & Festival, set to take place in Azerbaijan in October. Ranjit Bajaj was approved as the team manager. The tournament regulations permit a team contingent of 20 members, comprising six staff and 14 players.

Trophy Formats and Compliance

The Competition Committee’s proposal for a revised three-tier format for the Santosh Trophy and the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy did not receive approval from the Executive Committee. Concerns were raised regarding competitive opportunities and player development. The Competitions Committee has been asked to re-evaluate its proposal and submit a revised format for future seasons. Consequently, no changes will be implemented for the 2026-27 season for either the Santosh Trophy or the Rajmata Jijabai Trophy.

The AIFF’s budget for the period of June 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027, was also approved by the Executive Committee. The AIFF Secretariat informed the committee about various notifications from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, concerning the adoption of the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, and its associated rules. Member Associations with upcoming elections are required to meet compliance requirements by October 20, 2026.

The prospect of facing Brazil has generated excitement among players. India captain Sandesh Jhingan expressed his anticipation for the match, highlighting the desire of athletes to compete on the biggest stage against top opponents. He views such games as crucial for gaining invaluable experience and potentially improving India’s world ranking. Defender Akash Mishra echoed this sentiment, suggesting that a strong performance could inspire more youngsters and demonstrate the positive direction of Indian football. Lallianzuala Chhangte, initially disbelieving the news, emphasized the special opportunity to share the pitch with a team like Brazil, stating that players must give their all for the country.

Source: the-aiff.com