GUWAHATI: The Indian football team is set to play against the Maldives in a FIFA International Friendly match at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong this evening, March 19. The match, which kicks off at 7:00 PM IST, will mark the first-ever international men's football match to be held in Shillong.
The friendly match will also see the return of Indian football legend, Sunil Chhetri, to the international stage. The 40-year-old forward, who is India’s all-time leading goal scorer, had announced his retirement from international football in June 2023. However, earlier this month, Chhetri reversed his decision and confirmed his return to the national squad.
This match against the Maldives serves as an important warm-up for India ahead of their AFC Asian Cup qualifying third-round opener against Bangladesh on March 25. The friendly is an important fixture in India's preparation for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaign, with the team drawn in Group C alongside Bangladesh, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
However, the Blue Tigers will be without winger Lallianzuala Chhangte, who has been ruled out of the match due to injury.
The match will be available for live streaming on JioHotstar and broadcasted on Star Sports 3.
India vs Maldives FIFA International Friendly Match Details:
Match: India vs Maldives (FIFA International Friendly)
Date: March 19, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM IST
Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Shillong
Where to Watch: Live streaming on JioHotstar; Telecast on Star Sports 3