India U17 team to play friendlies against UAE in Thailand

NEW DELHI: Apr 15 The India under-17 football team will play two friendly matches against the United Arab Emirates under-17 side in Thailand this month as part of both teams’ preparations for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026, with the games set to be held behind closed doors.

The 24-member India squad arrived in Thailand earlier on Wednesday for the April 17 and 21 clashes, which will be played in Samut Prakan, near Bangkok.

Last month, Bibiano Fernandes’ side had played three friendlies against Thailand (2-2), Indonesia (3-0 win) and Korea Republic (1-2 defeat) in Lopburi, Thailand. Following the games, the Blue Colts continued their training camp in Kolkata.