India's U20 men's football team is gearing up for the AFC U20 Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, with head coach Mahesh Gawali announcing a 23-player squad. The qualifiers will be held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, from August 31 to September 6, 2026.

The selection process was thorough, with over a hundred players assessed during trials in Bengaluru since June. From an initial squad of 30, eight players were released due to technical decisions or injuries, including Shuhaid Koya Thangal PS and Arshvir Singh. However, Daniyal Makakmayum has been added to the final roster.

Earlier this month, the Blue Colts participated in four friendly matches, achieving two victories against Singapore (3-0 and 1-0), a goalless draw with Yemen, and a narrow win against a West Asian team. The team is set to face Syria in their opening match on August 31 at 16:30 IST, followed by a match against hosts Uzbekistan on September 3 at 19:30 IST, and will conclude their group stage against Bangladesh on September 6 at 16:30 IST.

The group winners and seven best runners-up from the eight groups will qualify for the AFC U20 Asian Cup in China in 2027. The squad is composed of talented players across various positions, including goalkeepers Jaskaran Dub, Pranav Sundarraman, and Suraj Singh Aheibam; defenders Asher Rebello and Bungson Singh Takhellambam; midfielders Aniket Yadav and Rishi Singh; and forwards Daniyal Makakmayum and Hateem Ali.

With a mix of youth and experience, the Indian team aims to make a significant impact in the qualifiers and secure their place in the upcoming Asian Cup.