The official draw for the MIC Cup 2026 (Mediterranean International Cup) took place yesterday, marking another historic milestone for Indian football as Minerva Academy FC became the first club from India ever to participate in the prestigious global youth tournament.
The MIC Cup, widely regarded as one of the most elite youth football tournaments in the world, will feature some of the biggest academies across Europe and the Americas. Minerva Academy’s inclusion in the tournament signals a breakthrough moment not only for the club but for Indian grassroots football on the global stage.
Minerva Academy FC have been placed in Group B as the top-seeded team, alongside:
BOCA OC (USA)
EF Santa Ana (Canada)
Kaptiva Sports Academy (Spain)
The Under-15 category of MIC Cup 2026 boasts a star-studded lineup, including renowned European academies such as Atlético Madrid, Villarreal CF, Real Sociedad, and Liverpool FC, among others. A total of 56 teams will compete in this age group, divided into 14 groups of four teams each.
As per tournament regulations, the top two teams from each group will qualify for the final round, while the remaining two teams will move into the consolation phase. The format ensures high-intensity competition from the very first match, with no room for complacency.
Minerva Academy’s seeding as the top team in Group B reflects their consistent international performances in recent years and their growing reputation as one of Asia’s most competitive youth academies. The draw places the Indian side in a diverse and competitive group, facing opponents from North America and Spain—providing invaluable exposure to varied footballing styles and tactical systems.
This participation represents the culmination of years of structured youth development under Minerva’s long-term World Cup vision. The academy’s emphasis on elite training standards, international exposure, and disciplined preparation has paved the way for this historic opportunity.
Becoming the first Indian club to compete in the MIC Cup underscores Minerva Academy FC’s commitment to raising the bar for Indian football globally. It is not merely participation—it is representation of an entire footballing ecosystem striving to bridge the gap with the world’s best.
As preparations intensify, Minerva Academy FC will aim to carry the aspirations of Indian football onto one of the most prestigious youth platforms in the world.
The countdown to MIC Cup 2026 has officially begun.