AIFF awaits FIFA nod as Brazil friendly clashes with ASEAN Cup final
The All India Football Federation finds itself in a tricky situation over India’s participation in the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup as it mulls sending an understrength team with the tournament final on October 3, clashing with a proposed high-profile friendly against Brazil in Kolkata on the same day.
“We’re awaiting a response from FIFA,” an AIFF official told PTI on Wednesday.
India have been drawn in Group A of Division 1, or the Premier Division, alongside Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.
The tournament is scheduled to be held in Indonesia from September 24 to October 3, with India’s campaign comprising three group-stage matches followed by the final on October 3.
The AIFF executive committee had decided at its August 6 meeting to participate in both the ASEAN Cup and the Brazil friendly, with separate squads planned for the two competitions, a move that was opposed by Indian icon Bhaichung Bhutia, who said India must field the best team at the FIFA ASEAN Cup.
FIFA regulations do not allow a participating country to field an Under-23 or second-string team in a FIFA-sanctioned competition.
This means India cannot field a reserve side in the ASEAN Cup while the senior team plays Brazil in Kolkata.
“The Executive Committee recognised the match against Brazil, to be played during the FIFA International Match Window, as a unique opportunity to provide Indian players with invaluable exposure against one of the world’s strongest footballing nations,” the AIFF had said after its meeting earlier this month.
The federation had also said it would formally notify FIFA of its plan to field separate squads for the two competitions.
The AIFF is now waiting for FIFA’s response on whether such an arrangement can be permitted.
The federation is understood to be keen to retain the Brazil fixture while exploring other international friendlies to ensure the national team gets adequate match exposure.
A pullout from the ASEAN Cup, if it arises could also invite regulatory action, including a financial penalty.
The scheduling issue could extend into November, with proposed friendlies against New Zealand potentially clashing with the SAFF Championship.
For now, the AIFF is working to resolve the October clash and finalise India’s international schedule while ensuring maximum exposure for the senior team.
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