AIFF considers withdrawing from FIFA ASEAN Cup in favour of India vs Brazil game
AIFF is weighing the option of withdrawing from the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup or fielding a second-string side to prioritise the October 3 friendly against Brazil. While most Executive Committee members favour the marquee clash, former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia has urged the federation to back the tournament for its sporting and financial benefits.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is contemplating fielding a second-string team or pulling out of the FIFA ASEAN Cup altogether to focus on the much-awaited India vs Brazil friendly. The FIFA ASEAN Cup is set to take place from September 24 to October 4, 2025, while the India vs Brazil match is slated for October 3 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
During the Executive Committee meeting on Thursday, former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia argued for giving priority to the FIFA ASEAN Cup, citing its competitive value against higher-ranked teams like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam. He further mentioned the potential prize money for a successful tournament. However, he also warned of the financial risk involved in the India vs Brazil friendly, which could strain the AIFF's budget.
The AIFF, which relied on a ₹50 crore annual fee from the Football Sports Development League (FSDL) for the ISL, can no longer rely on that income after the contract expired in December 2025.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
