MARGAO
Goan goalkeeper Ozen Vivian Silva has been named in India’s men’s futsal squad for the SAFF Futsal Championship 2026, announced by the All India Football Federation.
Silva, who hails from Ambelim village, represented Ambelim Sports Club in the AIFF Futsal Club Championship. He is one of two goalkeepers selected in the 14-member national squad and brings prior international experience, having featured in the AFC Futsal Asian Cup Qualifiers.
The championship will be held in Nonthaburi, Thailand, from January 14 to 26. It marks the first edition of the SAFF men’s futsal tournament.
India will be coached by Reza Kordi, with the tournament to be played in a single round-robin format featuring all seven SAFF member nations. The top-ranked team at the end of the league stage will be crowned champions.
India’s fixtures in the SAFF Futsal Championship 2026 are as follows: January 14 against Bangladesh; January 18 against Nepal; January 20 against Maldives; January 22 against Bhutan; January 24 against Sri Lanka; and January 26 against Pakistan.
Reacting to Silva’s selection, Goa Football Association president Dr Caitano Fernandes said, “Ozen’s selection is the result of consistent performance and discipline over time. His inclusion in the national futsal squad reflects the steady progress of futsal development in Goa, and we are confident he will represent the state with responsibility and professionalism.”
