The upcoming FIFA international window is set to be action-packed for the Indian national football team. The men’s team already have a confirmed friendly against Brazil on October 3, and talks are ongoing with the Cape Verdean Football Federation.
According to a report by The Telegraph, India’s likely fixture against Cape Verde will take place on October 6, in Kolkata or Kochi.
In an earlier report, Sports Now revealed that sources close to the Cape Verdean Football Federation have revealed that talks with the AIFF are in their final phase, but some formalities still need to be ironed out.
Cape Verde made their FIFA World Cup debut this year, and surprised fans with their fairytale run. The African island nation drew to eventual champions Spain 0-0 in their opener, courtesy of heroics from goalkeeper Vozinha.
Then they drew to Uruguay 2-2, followed by a goalless stalemate against Saudi Arabia in Group H. In the Round of 32, they almost defeated 2022 champions Argentina, holding Lionel Messi and Co. to a 1-1 draw in regular time, before falling to a 2-3 defeat in extra time.
The deadline for confirming the friendly against Cape Verde is August 31.
The decision to face Brazil in the friendly saw AIFF withdraw from the FIFA ASEAN Cup. According to FIFA ASEAN Cup regulations, a team will be fined if they withdraw after confirming their participation. But the AIFF released a statement on Wednesday, condemning such reports.
AIFF’s statement on FIFA ASEAN Cup withdrawal
In a press release, the AIFF said, “The AIFF condemns the incorrect claims that its decision not to participate in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 has resulted in a predetermined financial penalty or fine.”
“The AIFF is also concerned about the public circulation of unverified figures and claims regarding its finances without any supporting basis or documentation.
“The decision to host five-time FIFA World Cup champions Brazil was taken through the appropriate institutional processes, recognising the exceptional opportunity it presents for Indian football, the national team and millions of fans. The match will give a morale boost to the Indian national team while driving fans towards Indian football, the impact of which is unquantifiable. The match is a mutually agreed international sporting opportunity between two football federations and should not be portrayed as a one-sided arrangement.
“The AIFF respects the democratic right to express opinions on Indian football. However, statements concerning the Federation’s finances and use of funds must be based on facts and verifiable information.
“The circulation of factually incorrect statements has the potential to adversely affect India’s reputation and standing nationally and internationally. We believe those who have made these claims have the best interests of Indian football in mind and may be misinformed. The AIFF, through this statement, seeks to make all aware of the facts. Should the concerned person(s) continue to disseminate incorrect claims, the AIFF will pursue appropriate legal remedies against those who continue to knowingly publish and/or circulate false and defamatory statements.”