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Wednesday | November 04, 2026 | Dhaka

India’s coach acknowledges Bangladesh as the ‘strongest’ but still eyes the title

 Sports Reporter
 Published: 12:02 AM, 04 November 2026

According to India football team’s interim Head Coach, Naushad Moosa, Bangladesh are strongest and best in this year’s SAFF Championship 2026.

He hopes to face Bangladesh in the final. Despite praising Bangladesh the Indian coach remains clear about his own team’s objective. India have come to Dhaka with the sole aim of winning their tenth title.

The Indian football team arrived in Dhaka last afternoon for the SAFF Championship. Speaking to journalists at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Naushad praised Bangladesh, describing them as the strongest side in the tournament.

“In my view, Bangladesh are currently the strongest team in the tournament. I hope to face them in the final.”

While Naushad considers Bangladesh the frontrunners, India cannot be ruled out of the title race.

The nine-time champions are keen to retain their crown, though this time, they are relying primarily on a younger squad. Several key players from India’s main national team are absent. Naushad Moosa, Head Coach of the U-23 side, has taken charge in place of the senior team’s Head Coach, Khalid Jamil.

The 28-member squad consists of largely Under-23 players.

India’s senior national football team are scheduled to play two friendly matches against New Zealand during this period.

Furthermore, with the Indian Super League (ISL) currently underway. Naushad does not have access to all his players from the start. Consequently, India will not be able to field a full-strength side for their opening match.

The coach views this as a challenge, yet he is not disappointed with the squad at his disposal. “With 10 teams competing in the ISL, some players won’t be available before the first match.

It is a challenge, but the squad I have is by no means weak. Honestly, our team are also quite strong.”