India Set for AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers Against Mongolia

India is ready to begin its AFC U20 Asian Cup 2025 qualification campaign against Mongolia. The team, led by coach Ranjan Chaudhuri and newly appointed captain Thomas K. Cherian, aims for a strong start at the Lao National Stadium.

After three months of rigorous preparation, India is all set to kick off their AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2025 qualification campaign in Vientiane, Laos. The Blue Colts will face Mongolia in their first match in Group G at the Lao National Stadium KM16 on Wednesday, September 25 at 2.30 pm IST. The top team from each group, along with the best five second-placed teams from 10 groups, will advance to the tournament.

India's head coach Ranjan Chaudhuri expressed confidence in his team during the pre-tournament press conference. "We've been preparing well for the last three months, and the boys are ready for the challenge," Chaudhuri stated.

Chaudhuri emphasized the importance of qualifying for the AFC U20 Asian Cup for the first time, highlighting the beneficial experience for the players and the prestige it would bring to Indian football at this age level. He stressed the importance of securing three points in the first match against Mongolia to set a favorable tone for the campaign.

India's squad arrived in Vientiane on Monday evening and rested well before Chaudhuri announced Thomas K. Cherian as captain on Tuesday morning. Cherian acknowledged the responsibility and expressed the team's positive mindset and readiness.

Mongolia's head coach Anar Batchuluun mentioned the need to adjust to the natural turf in Laos, contrasting with artificial turfs back home. Despite recognizing India as a strong team, Batchuluun affirmed Mongolia's readiness to give their best in the match.

(With inputs from agencies.)