Bengaluru’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium has been confirmed as the venue for the Indian senior men’s football team’s international friendly against Panama on September 26 during the FIFA Men’s International Match Window.

Blue Tigers Return to Bengaluru

The fixture will mark India’s return to Bengaluru after their memorable SAFF Championship 2023 triumph at the same stadium. India defeated Kuwait in the final to lift the title, with the team receiving strong support from local fans throughout the tournament.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) expects the upcoming fixture to once again bring thousands of supporters to the stadium.

Tough Test Against World Cup Side

The match will provide India with a challenging test against Panama, ranked 44th in the FIFA World Rankings. Panama’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup adds further importance to the encounter.

The fixture will also be part of a demanding international schedule for India. It will come exactly a week before the Blue Tigers face five-time world champions Brazil in Kolkata on October 3.

Bengaluru’s Footballing Legacy

Bengaluru has previously witnessed memorable moments in Indian football. In 2001, the city hosted India’s notable FIFA World Cup qualifying victory over the United Arab Emirates, who were ranked significantly higher than India at the time.

The upcoming Panama fixture will arrive around 25 years after that memorable result, adding another chapter to Bengaluru’s football history.

AIFF Welcomes National Team’s Return

NA Haris, AIFF Vice President and Karnataka State Football Association President, welcomed the decision to bring the national team back to Bengaluru.

He said the city’s strong connection with Indian football was evident during the 2023 SAFF Championship and expressed confidence that supporters would once again create an energetic atmosphere for the Blue Tigers.

With a World Cup-bound Panama providing the opposition, the September 26 friendly is expected to offer India valuable international experience while giving Bengaluru football fans another opportunity to watch the national team on home soil.

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