FIFA World Cup Qualifiers : The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has made an exciting announcement, revealing that Bhubaneswar and Guwahati will be the venues for India’s first two home matches in the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup 2027 Preliminary Joint Qualification Round 2. This marks a significant step in India’s footballing journey, and fans are eagerly awaiting these crucial fixtures.
Here’s everything you need to know: FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
India’s Group A Challenge
India finds itself in Group A alongside football powerhouses Qatar and Kuwait, along with the winners of the Preliminary Joint Qualification Round 1 match between Afghanistan and Mongolia.
November 2023: The Kick-off
India’s campaign begins with an away fixture against Kuwait on November 16, 2023, setting the stage for an intense qualification battle.
Bhubaneswar and Guwahati to Host India’s First Two FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
Bhubaneswar’s Big Role
- On November 21, 2023, India will host reigning AFC Asian Cup champions Qatar at Bhubaneswar’s Kalinga Stadium.
- This match is a critical one, and the vibrant atmosphere in Bhubaneswar is expected to inspire the Indian team.
March 2024: Guwahati’s Turn
- In 2024, India faces back-to-back matches against Afghanistan or Mongolia. The journey begins with an away fixture on March 21, 2024.
- The return leg of this fixture takes place at Guwahati’s Indira Gandhi Stadium on March 26, 2024
Bhubaneswar and Guwahati to Host India’s First Two FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
State Associations Shine
- The AIFF praised the Football Association of Odisha and Assam Football Association for successfully bidding to host these important matches.
- Their efforts, along with the support of respective state governments, will contribute to world-class match delivery.
Kuwait Fixture Host
While Bhubaneswar and Guwahati have been confirmed as venues for the first two home matches, the host for India’s home leg against Kuwait on June 6, 2024, is yet to be determined.
AIFF’s Vision
The AIFF, through these venue selections, underlines India’s footballing ambitions and commitment to providing the best possible environment for the national team to excel.
Bhubaneswar and Guwahati to Host India’s First Two FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
As Bhubaneswar and Guwahati gear up to host these historic matches, Indian football fans can look forward to witnessing their team’s quest for glory on home soil. These qualifiers represent a crucial step towards India’s aspirations in international football. Stay tuned for the action and support the Blue Tigers on their journey to the World Cup!
Read more : ICC World Cup 2023 Schedule Revealed: Dates, Fixtures, Teams, Venues, and Key Matches
