Ghaziabad City FC unveil squad for AIFF I‑League 3 as campaign opens in Rudrapur

Ghaziabad City FC announced its squad for the AIFF I‑League 3 2026–27, which begins on October 22, 2026, in Rudrapur, Uttarakhand. The club said it will represent Uttar Pradesh for a second time after qualifying on merit.

Founded in 2021 by Amit Rawat and Hemant Panwar, Ghaziabad City FC has focused on building a competitive football structure in the region. The club stated it became the first from Uttar Pradesh to qualify for I‑League 3 twice on merit. GCFC’s stated long‑term aim is to qualify for I‑League 2, and the organisation emphasises player development and creating pathways for talent.

Captain Pankaj Negi has been named to lead the squad, which the club describes as containing players across all areas of the pitch. Coaching and support personnel will oversee the campaign, with responsibilities that the club lists as tactical preparation, player fitness and welfare, team coordination and media communication throughout the tournament.

Ghaziabad City FC have been drawn into Group B alongside Sher‑e Punjab, Techtro Swadesh FC, Garhwal Heroes FC and Corbett FC, a group the club notes includes teams from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi and Uttarakhand. All four of GCFC’s group matches are scheduled to be played in Rudrapur, Uttarakhand.

The club highlighted its partnership with Village Soccer Academy (VSA) as part of efforts to strengthen the local football ecosystem and provide players a pathway to higher levels. Ghaziabad City FC said the journey to a second I‑League 3 appearance reflects a commitment to sustained performance and competitive progress.

GCFC views participation in the national competition as an opportunity to bring wider exposure to Ghaziabad’s football community and to test the team against opponents from different regions. The club has stated its objective for the tournament is to push for progression toward I‑League 2.

Ghaziabad City FC will open their I‑League 3 campaign against Sher‑e Punjab in Rudrapur, with the match scheduled to kick off at 4:00 PM.