India vs Vietnam: A Friendly Clash Amidst Turbulence

The Indian men's football team is set to play an international friendly against Vietnam after the cancellation of a tri-nation tournament due to Lebanon's withdrawal. The match is scheduled for October 12 at Thien Truong Stadium and will count towards FIFA Rankings.

The Indian men's football team will face Vietnam in an international friendly on October 12, prompted by the cancellation of a planned tri-nation tournament. The withdrawal of Lebanon, citing travel difficulties amid a national crisis, led to the alteration of the event originally scheduled for October 7-15.

In an official statement, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) clarified that India will take on Vietnam in a one-off match at Nam Định's Thien Truong Stadium. This fixture, which follows Lebanon's pull-out, will contribute to the FIFA Rankings, adding importance beyond its billing as a friendly.

The Indian squad, under the guidance of head coach Manolo Marquez, is set to commence preparations in Kolkata. A training session is planned for October 6, before traveling to Vietnam on October 7 with a final squad of 23 players drawn from an initial list of 26 probables.

(With inputs from agencies.)