MFF Planning Possible 2026 Friendlies with China and Russia

In February 2026, the Mongolian Football Federation welcomed a delegation from the Russian Football Union to discuss ways to strengthen the relationship between the two associations whose nations share a border of 3500km. Among the topics discussed were potential infrastructure projects and an exchange of players and coaches.

Also discussed was a potential three-team international friendly tournament hosted in either Ulaanbaatar or Russia. The proposed third team is Mongolia's other powerhouse neighbor, China. If the tournament comes to fruition, it is expected to be held in the second half of this year.

Despite its proximity, Mongolia has never played Russia who is a member of UEFA, the European confederation, at the senior level. The Blue Wolves have, however, played China once before. Mongolia lost the 1-6 as part of a tournament for communist nations held in 1960.

Russia has been forced to play matches only against friendly nations since it was suspended by UEFA and FIFA in February 2022 because of its invasion of Ukraine.

Despite the ban, Russia has played 22 matches since 2022 and has two further friendlies scheduled with Nicaragua and Mali later this week. Conversely, Mongolia has not played a match since a pair of 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers against Timor-Leste in September 2024.