Desperate India up against a rejuvenated Afghanistan
India sought to infuse vibrant hues to its 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign where it faces a rejuvenated Afghanistan in a secondround match of Group A, at the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, here on Tuesday.
The Holi celebrations provided the perfect ambience for the Indian squad to renew its promises for a better result after having played out a drab goalless draw against the same opponent while visiting its makeshift home in Saudi Arabian city of Abha barely four days ago.
The match here assumes importance for India which is looking to make it to the next stage (round three) of the World Cup qualifiers — which also doubles up as the qualification round for the final stage of the 2027 Asian Cup — for the first time.
Indian head coach Igor Stimac has asserted that he would be quitting his post if the country fails to progress in the qualification process. Stimac, who has a contract as the Indian head coach till 2026, believes that the team can advance to the next stage if it delivers to its potential.
A win against Afghanistan at home will consolidate India’s position in the second spot where it currently lies after three rounds with four points in its kitty. Two teams will progress from each group in the current second round engagements.
India began its campaign with a lot of promise as it beat Kuwait 10 away on Nov. 16, 2023. It lost to the current group leader and Asian Champion Qatar 03 (on Nov. 21, Bhubaneswar) before picking up another point against Afghanistan in its second away game at Abha.
Chhetri, who will be earning a historic 150th cap in India colours, wished that his team makes it memorable with a win against Afghanistan.