The recent 1-2 loss to Afghanistan has made the path to qualification increasingly challenging for the Indian men’s team.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification draws nearer, India is still grappling with a host of unresolved issues. This much is clear following the Men in Blue’s recent defeat at the hands of Afghanistan. With a string of losses, the dream of the Indian National Football Team to compete in the 2026 Men’s FIFA World Cup seems to be slipping further away.
The Disheartening Loss to Afghanistan: A Wake-Up Call
India’s recent defeat against Afghanistan, a nation facing significant political and social turmoil, marked a new low. This wasn’t just a defeat – it was a stark reminder of the immense gap India needs to bridge, and it has sent shockwaves through the Indian football landscape. The defeat against Afghanistan, a country with its own set of challenges, has raised questions about India’s preparedness and strategy on the field.
Tactical Flaws and Managerial Missteps
During the match, Indian players displayed an uncharacteristic lack of coordination and strategy. Lofty passes often found their way to Afghanistani players, highlighting a disconnect within the Indian team. Despite possessing skillful players, India failed to capitalize on their strengths, leading to a disheartening defeat.
Fans Are Not Happy
Frustration is mounting. Fans are voicing their discontent with Coach Igor Stimac’s tactics and squad selection. Stimac himself has acknowledged the pressure, even going so far as to declare he’ll step down if India fails to reach the next qualification round. But is this enough? Reliance on astrology for team decisions and a lack of robust youth development programs are just a few concerning factors.
Rethinking Strategies: Embracing the Tiki-Taka
One glaring observation from the match was India’s potential in adopting the Tiki-Taka style of play. Despite the team’s smaller stature compared to other footballing nations, Indian players showcased glimpses of brilliance in their passing and possession-based play. In the 80th minute, a remarkable display of Tiki-Taka in Afghanistan’s corner demonstrated India’s capability to excel in this style.
A Call for Change
To unlock India’s footballing potential, a shift in strategy and management is imperative. Bringing in people who are ready to make significant changes, from strategizing gameplay to selecting players who truly deserve the spot, is needed.
A New Chapter for Indian Football
The road ahead will be challenging, but the dream of seeing India on the World Cup stage remains alive. It’s time for the Indian footballing ecosystem to unite, address its shortcomings, and pave a way for a brighter future.”
