The numbers
The MIC Cup 2026 is gearing up to be a monumental event in youth football, featuring 52 teams from around the globe, including Minerva FC, the sole representative from India. The tournament kicks off on April 1, 2026, with Minerva FC’s first match against Boca OC, set for 9:30 PM IST.
Minerva FC, based in Mohali, Punjab, has a rich history of nurturing young talent and is determined to make its mark in this prestigious tournament. The team arrived in Spain on March 25, 2026, after overcoming significant hurdles, including visa rejections that nearly dashed their dreams. Ranjit Bajaj, the club’s owner, expressed the emotional rollercoaster, stating, “The entire process was very difficult. Initially, visas got rejected, and we thought our dreams would be shattered.”
Competing in Group B alongside Boca OC, Kaptiva Sports Academy, and EF Santa Ana, Minerva FC is poised for a challenging journey. The tournament, often referred to as the Junior World Cup, has seen the likes of football legends such as Lionel Messi and Neymar grace its fields, adding to the excitement surrounding this year’s edition.
With the stakes high, Minerva FC aims to showcase the talent and potential of Indian football on an international stage. Bajaj emphasized the importance of such tournaments, stating, “If our players have to reach that level, they need to compete in these tournaments.” This sentiment resonates deeply within the club, as they strive to elevate Indian football and inspire the next generation.
Financially, the journey has not been easy. Minerva FC raised 45 lakhs through crowdfunding and took out a personal loan of 2 crores to support their participation. They hope to raise an additional 15 lakhs to cover the costs associated with this international venture. The financial commitment reflects the club’s dedication to providing its players with opportunities to compete at the highest levels.
As the tournament approaches, excitement builds not only within the team but also among fans and supporters back home. The matches will be live-streamed on the Minerva Academy YouTube channel, allowing fans to witness the action unfold in real-time. Tony Huidrom, a key figure in the club, remarked, “These tournaments are about the whole Indian dream,” highlighting the collective aspirations tied to their participation.
Minerva FC’s journey in the MIC Cup 2026 is not just about football; it embodies the hopes and dreams of countless young athletes in India. As they prepare to take the field, the world will be watching, eager to see how this underdog team performs against formidable international competition. With their first match just around the corner, the anticipation is palpable, and the players are ready to make their mark.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the outcomes of future matches, but one thing is certain: Minerva FC’s participation in the MIC Cup 2026 is a significant step forward for Indian football, and the team is determined to seize the moment.
