The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced that the Indian men’s national football team will travel to Tajikistan for two away friendly matches during the upcoming June FIFA international window. Both fixtures are scheduled to take place at the Hisor Central Stadium on June 5 and June 9.
Located 15km west of the capital city of Dushanbe, Hisor is a familiar setting for the Blue Tigers. The venue previously hosted India during last year’s Central Asian Football Association (CAFA) Nations Cup. That tournament marked a memorable debut for head coach Khalid Jamil, where India pulled off a stunning 2-1 upset against a Tajikistan side ranked 33 places above them. Despite entering as the second-lowest-ranked team, India advanced through the group stage with a win, a draw, and a loss, ultimately clinching third place globally after a thrilling 3-2 penalty shootout victory over Oman.
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However, that momentum was cut short following a devastating 1-2 defeat to Singapore in Goa during a decisive AFC Asian Cup qualifier. The loss officially confirmed India’s failure to qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup, marking the first time in a decade that the nation will miss out on the continental showpiece after featuring in the previous two editions.
Consequently, India will rely heavily on international friendlies to rebuild until the next competitive tournament cycle begins next year.
Currently, the squad is stationed in London for the Unity Cup 2026 and is set to face Jamaica on Wednesday. Depending on that result, India will progress to either the tournament final or the third-place playoff against Nigeria or Zimbabwe. Immediately following their campaign in London, the team will depart for Tajikistan on May 31 to prepare for the twin friendlies.
