Shillong, May 4: Meghalaya will compete in Group A of the Swami Vivekananda U-20 Men’s National Football Championship 2026, set to be held in Narainpur, Chhattisgarh.
The state has announced an 18-member squad, which will be guided by experienced youth coach Jeffrey Warlarpih. Meghalaya are grouped alongside Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Jharkhand in a five-team pool.
Meghalaya will begin their campaign against Bihar on May 9, followed by matches against Jharkhand (May 11), Andhra Pradesh (May 13), and Rajasthan (May 17).
The team enters the tournament with growing confidence, having shown steady improvement in recent editions. Meghalaya reached the semifinals last year, after being eliminated in the group stage in 2024, reflecting consistent progress.
Ahead of their departure, the Meghalaya Football Association (MFA) organised a send-off ceremony for the team. The players were encouraged by MFA General Secretary Sunesh Syiem, Vice-President Cliff Nongrum, and senior members Dipshon L Nongbri and Freddy Kharpran, who extended their best wishes.
Meghalaya Squad: Goalkeepers: Jovialstar L Lyngkhoi, Kangkam G Momin, Defenders: Bipiush G Marak, Damitre Kynjing, Imeral Jana, Pynshailang L Nonglait, Shemkupar Massar, Defender Sylliang, Midfielders: Phermanbha Lyngdoh, Sholinstar Syngkli, Gerald Ebenezer Kharbyngar, Menangpyndap Khongjee, Dawansalanmi Malang. Forwards: Mebanlamlynti Masharing, Alex Manar, Ryan Gibbs Kharnaior, Samborlang Langte, Banganson Nongphlang and Support Staff: Jeffrey Warlarpih (Head Coach), Khrawbok Syngkli (Assistant Coach), Amit Rai (Manager), Banisha Lapasam (Physio)
