India’s U23 men’s football team will face Brunei Darussalam in their final Group H clash at the Suheim bin Hamad Stadium, Doha. A win will keep their AFC U23 Asian Cup qualification hopes alive, making this match a crucial one for the Blue Colts.
India began with a strong 3–0 victory over Bahrain but fell narrowly to hosts Qatar. With three points in hand, they remain in contention either as group winners or among the four best second-placed teams. Goal difference could play a decisive role, so scoring heavily against Brunei is vital.
Head coach Naushad Moosa urged his players to remain sharp, noting that Brunei conceded 23 goals in their first two matches. “We must stay focused for 90 minutes and aim to score as many goals as possible,” he said. Moosa praised his team’s spirited fight against Qatar and stressed the need for the same determination.
If India beat Brunei and Bahrain manage a narrow win over Qatar, India could top Group H. Otherwise, they must rely on results from other groups. A commanding performance in this final game may secure India’s historic qualification to the AFC U23 Asian Cup.
