Bhubaneswar will host the much-anticipated India vs. Qatar match, a critical fixture in the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup 2027 joint qualifiers.AIFF has officially announced in a communication to the Football Association of Odisha.The match will be held on November 21, 2023 at the iconic Kalinga Stadium.
This significant decision by AIFF reaffirms Odisha's growing reputation as a hub for sports and a destination of choice for international events particularly Football.Odisha had earlier hosted the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup and Intercontinental cup matches at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar, the host city, also has five FIFA standard natural pitches that further adds to the state’s ability to host marquee football tournaments.Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said, "We are immensely honored and thrilled to host the India vs. Qatar match for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup 2027 joint qualifiers.
This event, he said, will not only showcase Odisha's passion for football but also highlights our commitment to promoting Football in the state.
“We look forward to welcoming players, fans, and football enthusiasts from across the nation to witness this historic moment in Odisha," Patnaik said
The match between India and Qatar holds immense significance as both teams vie for qualification in the prestigious FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup 2027.The details regarding the match date, venue, ticketing, and other important information will be communicated in due course,official sources here on Saturday said.(UNI)