As India gears up for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has thanked Zee TV for promoting football across the country. From nationwide watch parties to youth football initiatives, India's passion for the beautiful game continues to grow as millions prepare for the biggest match in world football.

World Cup 2026 Final | Gianni Infantino Praises Zee TV for Promoting Football Across India

<p>Indian football is once again staring at uncertainty after FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) issued a stern notice to the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The global and continental bodies have set October 30, 2025, as the deadline for the federation to adopt a new constitution in line with international statutes and India’s updated sports governance framework. Failure to comply could lead to another suspension, a situation that would derail both the men’s and women’s national teams as well as domestic leagues.</p><h2>A familiar trouble</h2><p>This is not the first time Indian football has found itself in a governance crisis. In 2022, the AIFF was briefly suspended for what FIFA termed “third-party interference” after the Supreme Court of India appointed a Committee of Administrators to run the federation. Although that ban was lifted within days, the episode served as a reminder of how fragile football administration in the country has been. The current standoff stems from the pending approval of a revised constitution. The draft, prepared after years of deliberation and legal wrangling, needs both Supreme Court clearance and ratification by AIFF’s general body. Unless that happens before the deadline, India risks isolation from international football once again.</p><h2>What a ban would mean</h2><p>The consequences of suspension go beyond symbolism. The national teams would be barred from FIFA and AFC tournaments, clubs would lose their international slots, and development funding from Zurich would be halted. Perhaps most damaging, the already shaky Indian Super League (ISL) calendar would collapse further—players and coaches are already facing uncertainty after the league’s commercial partner froze the upcoming season due to disputes over media and commercial rights.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While Indian football has made modest progress on the field—with rising attendances in some states, improved youth scouting, and increased foreign interest—the governance paralysis has repeatedly overshadowed the sport. Critics argue that prolonged litigation, political interference, and administrative infighting have left the game without clear leadership. FIFA and AFC, in their letter, underlined three key demands: a constitution that respects global football principles, a Supreme Court order endorsing it, and its adoption by the AIFF General Assembly. Any deviation, they warned, would invite sanctions.</p><h2>A race against time</h2><p>The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the case on August 28, a session that could determine whether the federation can resolve the impasse before the October deadline. For now, players, fans, and stakeholders remain anxious. Every delay deepens the risk of Indian football being pushed to the margins just as it struggles to grow.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The crisis reveals a paradox: while Indian football dreams of breaking into Asia’s elite, its foundation is repeatedly shaken by boardroom battles. Without governance reform, financial stability, and institutional transparency, the sport will continue to swing between hope and crisis. The next two months will decide whether Indian football finally finds stability or slips into another cycle of suspension and recovery.</p>

Sleeping giant in coma again? FIFA warns India of fresh ban

Indian football is once again staring at uncertainty after FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) issued a stern notice to the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The global and continental bodies have set October 30, 2025, as the deadline for the federation to adopt a new constitution in line with international statutes and India’s updated sports governance framework. Failure to comply could lead to another suspension, a situation that would derail both the men’s and women’s national teams as well as domestic leagues. A familiar trouble This is not the first time Indian football has found itself in a governance crisis. In 2022, the AIFF was briefly suspended for what FIFA termed “third-party interference” after the Supreme Court of India appointed a Committee of Administrators to run the federation. Although that ban was lifted within days, the episode served as a reminder of how fragile football administration in the country has been. The current standoff stems from the pending approval of a revised constitution. The draft, prepared after years of deliberation and legal wrangling, needs both Supreme Court clearance and ratification by AIFF’s general body. Unless that happens before the deadline, India risks isolation from international football once again. What a ban would mean The consequences of suspension go beyond symbolism. The national teams would be barred from FIFA and AFC tournaments, clubs would lose their international slots, and development funding from Zurich would be halted. Perhaps most damaging, the already shaky Indian Super League (ISL) calendar would collapse further—players and coaches are already facing uncertainty after the league’s commercial partner froze the upcoming season due to disputes over media and commercial rights. While Indian football has made modest progress on the field—with rising attendances in some states, improved youth scouting, and increased foreign interest—the governance paralysis has repeatedly overshadowed the sport. Critics argue that prolonged litigation, political interference, and administrative infighting have left the game without clear leadership. FIFA and AFC, in their letter, underlined three key demands: a constitution that respects global football principles, a Supreme Court order endorsing it, and its adoption by the AIFF General Assembly. Any deviation, they warned, would invite sanctions. A race against time The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the case on August 28, a session that could determine whether the federation can resolve the impasse before the October deadline. For now, players, fans, and stakeholders remain anxious. Every delay deepens the risk of Indian football being pushed to the margins just as it struggles to grow. The crisis reveals a paradox: while Indian football dreams of breaking into Asia’s elite, its foundation is repeatedly shaken by boardroom battles. Without governance reform, financial stability, and institutional transparency, the sport will continue to swing between hope and crisis. The next two months will decide whether Indian football finally finds stability or slips into another cycle of suspension and recovery.

<p>Indian football faces uncertainty after FIFA and the AFC set a deadline of October 30, 2025, for the AIFF to adopt a new constitution in line with international and national sports governance frameworks</p>

<p>The Supreme Court on Monday (August 18) agreed to hear on August 22 the dispute between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) over the future of the Indian Super League (ISL), following the non-renewal of contracts that has left 11 clubs facing uncertainty. A bench of Justices P S Narasimha and A S Chandurkar listed the plea after amicus curiae and senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan argued that FSDL must honour its contract to conduct the ISL during the agreement period.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"If it does not, the AIFF should be directed to terminate the contract and float a tender. Otherwise the players suffer and after repeated non-payment, we can be sanctioned by the FIFA," Sankaranarayanan said. The crisis stems from FSDL’s decision on July 11 to place the 2025-26 ISL season “on hold”, citing uncertainty over the renewal of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) with AIFF. The move has already led at least three clubs to pause first-team operations or suspend salaries.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Last week, the 11 ISL clubs — including Bengaluru FC, Hyderabad FC, Odisha FC, Chennaiyin FC, Jamshedpur FC, FC Goa, Kerala Blasters FC, Punjab FC, NorthEast United FC, Mumbai City FC and Mohammedan Sporting — wrote to AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey warning that they face “the real possibility of shutting down entirely.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Traditional giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal did not sign the letter. The clubs said the deadlock has “paralysed professional football in India” and threatens to undo over a decade of investment in youth development, infrastructure, and community outreach.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Over the past 11 years, through sustained investment and coordinated effort, clubs have built youth development systems, training infrastructure, community outreach programmes and professional teams that have elevated India's footballing credibility both domestically and internationally," the clubs wrote in the letter. "This progress is now in imminent danger of collapse. The current standstill has created immediate and severe consequences. With operations suspended and no certainty on league continuity, several clubs face the real possibility of shutting down entirely," they said.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, the larger issue of governance in Indian football remains pending. On April 30, the top court reserved its verdict on the draft AIFF constitution prepared by former judge L Nageswara Rao.</p><h2>The draft proposes sweeping reforms, including:</h2><ul><li>A maximum of 12 years in office (two consecutive four-year terms, with a mandatory four-year cooling-off after eight years),</li><li>An age cap of 70 years for office-bearers</li><li>An executive committee of 14 members, including five eminent players (two women)</li><li>Provision for no-confidence motions to remove office-bearers, including the president</li><li>The Supreme Court will take up the ISL crisis on Friday (August 22)</li></ul>

Supreme Court to hear ISL clubs’ plea on August 22 as Indian football faces existential crisis

The Supreme Court on Monday (August 18) agreed to hear on August 22 the dispute between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) over the future of the Indian Super League (ISL), following the non-renewal of contracts that has left 11 clubs facing uncertainty. A bench of Justices P S Narasimha and A S Chandurkar listed the plea after amicus curiae and senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan argued that FSDL must honour its contract to conduct the ISL during the agreement period. "If it does not, the AIFF should be directed to terminate the contract and float a tender. Otherwise the players suffer and after repeated non-payment, we can be sanctioned by the FIFA," Sankaranarayanan said. The crisis stems from FSDL’s decision on July 11 to place the 2025-26 ISL season “on hold”, citing uncertainty over the renewal of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) with AIFF. The move has already led at least three clubs to pause first-team operations or suspend salaries. Last week, the 11 ISL clubs — including Bengaluru FC, Hyderabad FC, Odisha FC, Chennaiyin FC, Jamshedpur FC, FC Goa, Kerala Blasters FC, Punjab FC, NorthEast United FC, Mumbai City FC and Mohammedan Sporting — wrote to AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey warning that they face “the real possibility of shutting down entirely.” Traditional giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal did not sign the letter. The clubs said the deadlock has “paralysed professional football in India” and threatens to undo over a decade of investment in youth development, infrastructure, and community outreach. "Over the past 11 years, through sustained investment and coordinated effort, clubs have built youth development systems, training infrastructure, community outreach programmes and professional teams that have elevated India's footballing credibility both domestically and internationally," the clubs wrote in the letter. "This progress is now in imminent danger of collapse. The current standstill has created immediate and severe consequences. With operations suspended and no certainty on league continuity, several clubs face the real possibility of shutting down entirely," they said. Meanwhile, the larger issue of governance in Indian football remains pending. On April 30, the top court reserved its verdict on the draft AIFF constitution prepared by former judge L Nageswara Rao. The draft proposes sweeping reforms, including: A maximum of 12 years in office (two consecutive four-year terms, with a mandatory four-year cooling-off after eight years), An age cap of 70 years for office-bearers An executive committee of 14 members, including five eminent players (two women) Provision for no-confidence motions to remove office-bearers, including the president The Supreme Court will take up the ISL crisis on Friday (August 22)

<p>The clubs wrote a letter to AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey last week, saying the crisis arising out of the non-renewal of the Master Rights Agreement between the national federation and the ISL organisers, FSDL, has ‘paralysed professional football in India’</p>

<p><strong>Bodoland FC vs BSF FT Live Stream:</strong> Bodoland FC will lock horns with BSF FT in Durand Cup 2024 and is aiming for its second consecutive win in the tournament. BSF FT lost their opening match of Durand Cup 2024 by a big 5-0 margin, followed by their second defeat against NorthEast United FC by 4-0.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bodoland FC also lost its opening match of the tournament with a margin of 2-0. However, the team made a comeback and claimed their first win in the Durand Cup 2024 against Odisha FC with a score of 2-0.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Bodoland FC vs BSF FT Live Streaming details:</h2>

<h2>Where to watch Bodoland FC vs BSF FT live on TV?</h2>

<p>The match between Bodoland FC and BSF FT will be telecast&nbsp;on Sony Sports Network in India.</p>

<p>The match will be available on the following channels: Sony TEN 2 SD TV and Sony TEN 2 HD TV</p>

<h2>Where to live-stream the match between Bodoland FC and BSF FT?</h2>

<p>The Bodoland FC vs BSF FT match will be streamed live on the SonyLiv app and website.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>When will the Bodoland FC vs BSF FT match be played?- Date</h2>

<p>The match will be played on 12 August 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>When will the Bodoland FC vs BSF FT match begin?- Time</h2>

<p>The match will begin at 7 pm IST.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Where will the match between Bodoland FC and BSF FT be played?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The match will be played at SAI Stadium, Kathalguri</p>

<p><strong>Also Read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-west-indies-vs-south-africa-1st-test-ends-in-draw-749408">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after West Indies vs South Africa 1st Test ends in draw</a>|</strong></p>

<h2>All you need to know about Bodoland FC vs BSF FT Durand Cup 2024</h2>

<p><strong>Date: 12 August, 2024<br />
Time: 7 pm IST<br />
Broadcast and Livestream- Sony Sports Network and SonyLiv app and website</strong></p>

<p><strong>Bodoland FC probable XI: </strong>Daoga Brahma, Bilson Daimari, Danswrang Basumatary, Wanboklang Lyngkhoi, Frank Nana, Benjamin Nana, Joe Aidoo, Sibra Narzary, Zacharie Mbenda, Dilli Ram Sanyasi, Mitinga Dwimary</p>

<p><strong>BSF FT Probable XI:</strong> Sonul Lal, Sanjog Jha, Andy Jajo, Bipul Khan, Jitender Rawat, Kishori, Anadhu Sanan, Asif Khan, Navjot Panesar, Mohd Aasif, Lakhwinder Singh</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Bodoland FC vs BSF FT Live Stream: Bodoland FC will lock horns with BSF FT in Durand Cup 2024 and is aiming for its second consecutive win in the tournament. BSF FT lost their opening match of Durand Cup 2024 by a big 5-0 margin, followed by their second defeat against NorthEast United FC by 4-0.

Bodoland FC vs BSF FT Live Stream: Bodoland FC will lock horns with BSF FT in Durand Cup 2024 and is aiming for its second consecutive win in the tournament. BSF FT lost their opening match of Durand Cup 2024 by a big 5-0 margin, followed by their second defeat against NorthEast United FC by 4-0. Bodoland FC also lost its opening match of the tournament with a margin of 2-0. However, the team made a comeback and claimed their first win in the Durand Cup 2024 against Odisha FC with a score of 2-0. Bodoland FC vs BSF FT Live Streaming details: Where to watch Bodoland FC vs BSF FT live on TV? The match between Bodoland FC and BSF FT will be telecast on Sony Sports Network in India. The match will be available on the following channels: Sony TEN 2 SD TV and Sony TEN 2 HD TV Where to live-stream the match between Bodoland FC and BSF FT? The Bodoland FC vs BSF FT match will be streamed live on the SonyLiv app and website. When will the Bodoland FC vs BSF FT match be played?- Date The match will be played on 12 August 2024. When will the Bodoland FC vs BSF FT match begin?- Time The match will begin at 7 pm IST. Where will the match between Bodoland FC and BSF FT be played? The match will be played at SAI Stadium, Kathalguri Also Read|Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after West Indies vs South Africa 1st Test ends in draw| All you need to know about Bodoland FC vs BSF FT Durand Cup 2024 Date: 12 August, 2024 Time: 7 pm IST Broadcast and Livestream- Sony Sports Network and SonyLiv app and website Bodoland FC probable XI: Daoga Brahma, Bilson Daimari, Danswrang Basumatary, Wanboklang Lyngkhoi, Frank Nana, Benjamin Nana, Joe Aidoo, Sibra Narzary, Zacharie Mbenda, Dilli Ram Sanyasi, Mitinga Dwimary BSF FT Probable XI: Sonul Lal, Sanjog Jha, Andy Jajo, Bipul Khan, Jitender Rawat, Kishori, Anadhu Sanan, Asif Khan, Navjot Panesar, Mohd Aasif, Lakhwinder Singh (With inputs from agencies)

Bodoland FC vs BSF FT Football Live Streaming: All you need to know

<p><strong>India vs Kuwait, Sunil Chhetri retirement match Live Streaming Details: </strong>Indian football team captain Sunil Chhetri will be playing his last-ever international match when India square up against Kuwait in the FIFA World Qualifiers. The match will take place at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Thursday (Jun 6) and a win would help India get its campaign back on track to enter the third round of qualifiers.</p>

<p>Chhetri announced his retirement from international football last month in a video message that came as a shock to fans.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Chhetri takes the field on Thursday, he could add to his already impressive 94 international goals tally. He is currently the third highest active goal-scorer after Cristiano Ronaldo (128) and Lionel Messi (106).</p>

<p>He remains the fourth-highest all-time top scorer in men's international football after Ronaldo, Ali Daei (109) and Messi. Chhetri will also retire as the second-highest goal-scorer from Asia, underlining his legendary status.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Here’s all you need to know about the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifier match.</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>When is the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait?</strong></h3>

<p>The second round FIFA World Cup qualifier match between India&nbsp;and Kuwait will take place on Thursday, June 6, 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>Where is the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifiers Football Match?</strong></h3>

<p>The match will take place at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Thursday (Jun 6)</p>

<h3><strong>When will the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifiers Football Match start?</strong></h3>

<p>The qualifier match between India&nbsp;and Kuwait for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will begin at 7 pm IST (1330 GMT).</p>

<h3><strong>Which TV channels will broadcast the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait?</strong></h3>

<p>The second round FIFA World Cup qualifier match between India&nbsp;and Kuwait will be broadcast on Sports18 Network’s TV channels.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Everything to play for 🇮🇳<br />
<br />
Watch Chhetri and the boys in the FIFA Qualifiers against 🇰🇼, LIVE only on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinema</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sports18</a> 👈<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvKUW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvKUW</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WCQualifiersonJioCinema?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WCQualifiersonJioCinema</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WCQualifiersonSports18?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WCQualifiersonSports18</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JioCinemaSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JioCinemaSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/5CZzr40nKx">pic.twitter.com/5CZzr40nKx</a></p>
— Sports18 (@Sports18) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sports18/status/1798588127633940782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h3><strong>How do I watch online live streaming of the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait?</strong></h3>

<p>The World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait live streaming will be available on JioCinema app and website. You can also follow all the updates on WION.&nbsp;</p>


India vs Kuwait, Sunil Chhetri retirement match Live Streaming Details: Indian football team captain Sunil Chhetri will be playing his last-ever international match when India square up against Kuwait in the FIFA World Qualifiers.

India vs Kuwait, Sunil Chhetri retirement match Live Streaming Details: Indian football team captain Sunil Chhetri will be playing his last-ever international match when India square up against Kuwait in the FIFA World Qualifiers. The match will take place at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Thursday (Jun 6) and a win would help India get its campaign back on track to enter the third round of qualifiers. Chhetri announced his retirement from international football last month in a video message that came as a shock to fans. When Chhetri takes the field on Thursday, he could add to his already impressive 94 international goals tally. He is currently the third highest active goal-scorer after Cristiano Ronaldo (128) and Lionel Messi (106). He remains the fourth-highest all-time top scorer in men's international football after Ronaldo, Ali Daei (109) and Messi. Chhetri will also retire as the second-highest goal-scorer from Asia, underlining his legendary status. Here’s all you need to know about the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifier match. When is the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait? The second round FIFA World Cup qualifier match between India and Kuwait will take place on Thursday, June 6, 2024. Where is the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifiers Football Match? The match will take place at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Thursday (Jun 6) When will the India vs Kuwait World Cup Qualifiers Football Match start? The qualifier match between India and Kuwait for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will begin at 7 pm IST (1330 GMT). Which TV channels will broadcast the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait? The second round FIFA World Cup qualifier match between India and Kuwait will be broadcast on Sports18 Network’s TV channels. Everything to play for 🇮🇳 Watch Chhetri and the boys in the FIFA Qualifiers against 🇰🇼, LIVE only on #JioCinema & #Sports18 👈#INDvKUW #WCQualifiersonJioCinema #WCQualifiersonSports18 #JioCinemaSports pic.twitter.com/5CZzr40nKx — Sports18 (@Sports18) June 6, 2024 × How do I watch online live streaming of the World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait? The World Cup Qualifier match between India vs Kuwait live streaming will be available on JioCinema app and website. You can also follow all the updates on WION.

India vs Kuwait Live Streaming, FIFA WC Qualifiers: When and where to watch Sunil Chhetri's retirement match

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<p>Indian men's football team won the SAFF Championship final on Tuesday, defeating Kuwait on penalties. The celebrations, however, took a controversial turn after midfielder Jeakson Singh was spotted carrying a Meitei&nbsp;flag with seven colours when going to collect his medals at the presentation ceremony in Bengaluru.</p>

<p>Singh wore on his back the flag of Kangleipak, or the Salai Taret Flag. The rectangular flag with seven colours represents the seven clan dynasties of the Meitei ethnicity of ancient Manipur.</p>

<p>After images of Singh wearing the flag went viral, netizens were left divided. While many regard the flag as secessionist and in turn slated Singh for wearing it, some lauded him for bringing attention to the ongoing situation in Manipur.</p>

<p>"What is Jeakson Singh doing with a secessionist flag. Doesn't he know that this is not a state /regional level competition rather a prestigious International Tournament where he is representing his Nation India. Take action @IndianFootball," wrote one netizen.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What is Jeakson Singh doing with a secessionist flag. Doesn't he know that this is not a state /regional level competition rather a prestigious International Tournament where he is representing his Nation India. Take action <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianFootball</a> <a href="https://t.co/d1dvLj9sNn">pic.twitter.com/d1dvLj9sNn</a></p>
— Siam Boy (@Aamtolzo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Aamtolzo/status/1676277703568416768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Playing for India and wearing Meitei secessionist Flag begs the question of loyalty of Jeakson Singh to the Indian Nation. The entire stadium abounds with the national flag and he chose to drape himself in this anti-national symbol??" added another.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, another user wrote: "Jeakson you’re brilliant in the field and heart. Keep shining. What a character you got brother. Your intentions of highlighting Manipur for peace restoration is well received. We all are with you Champ."</p>

<h2><strong>Jeakson releases statement</strong></h2>

<p>After the controversy snowballed, Singh released a statement saying his intention was not to hurt sentiments. Instead, he wanted to bring the Manipur violence issue to notice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Dear Fans, By celebrating in the flag, I did not want to hurt the sentiments of anyone. I intended to bring notice to the issues that my home state, Manipur, is facing currently. This win tonight is dedicated to all the Indians,” he wrote on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I hope that peace returns to my home state of Manipur. Thank you to the fans for coming out and supporting the team tonight!” added Singh, with hashtags “Save Manipur” and “Peace and Love” apart from “India” and “SAFF Championship 2023”.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear Fans,<br />
<br />
By celebrating in the flag, I did not want to hurt the sentiments of anyone. I intended to bring notice to the issues that my home state, Manipur, is facing currently.<br />
<br />
This win tonight is dedicated to all the Indians. <a href="https://t.co/fuL8TE8dU4">pic.twitter.com/fuL8TE8dU4</a></p>
— Jeakson Singh Thounaojam (@JeaksonT) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeaksonT/status/1676330487697272835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is happening in Manipur?</strong></h2>

<p>The ethnic violence in Manipur started on May 3 when tribal groups, including the Kuki community, clashed with the ethnic majority of Meitei people — a non-tribal group, over economic benefits and quotas given to the tribes.</p>

<p>After the initial round of violence, Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the state to take stock of the situation and requested for '15-days of calm' to simmer down the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His request seemingly worked as violence abated before flaring up again. The situation has remained tense since then as authorities fail to restore peace in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/manipur-violence-no-end-to-meitei-kuki-clashes-608341"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Manipur violence: No end to Meitei-Kuki clashes</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>SAFF Championship finals</strong></h2>

<p>India beat Kuwait in a hard-fought encounter, in front of a packed Kanteerava crowd. After going down one goal in the 14th minute, India managed to equalise in the 38th minute and took the game to penalties.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saff-championships-final-india-down-kuwait-to-clinch-historic-triumph-gurpreet-yet-again-turns-shootout-hero-611974"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;SAFF Championships Final: India down Kuwait to clinch ninth title; Gurpreet yet again turns shootout hero</strong></a></p>

<p>Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu once again proved to be the difference-maker as he saved two penalties, helping the hosts lift the SAFF trophy, for a record ninth time.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Indian men's football team won the SAFF Championship final on Tuesday, defeating Kuwait on penalties. The celebrations, however, took a controversial turn after midfielder Jeakson Singh was spotted carrying a Meitei flag with seven colours when going to collect his medals at the presentation ceremony in Bengaluru.

Indian men's football team won the SAFF Championship final on Tuesday, defeating Kuwait on penalties. The celebrations, however, took a controversial turn after midfielder Jeakson Singh was spotted carrying a Meitei flag with seven colours when going to collect his medals at the presentation ceremony in Bengaluru. Singh wore on his back the flag of Kangleipak, or the Salai Taret Flag. The rectangular flag with seven colours represents the seven clan dynasties of the Meitei ethnicity of ancient Manipur. After images of Singh wearing the flag went viral, netizens were left divided. While many regard the flag as secessionist and in turn slated Singh for wearing it, some lauded him for bringing attention to the ongoing situation in Manipur. "What is Jeakson Singh doing with a secessionist flag. Doesn't he know that this is not a state /regional level competition rather a prestigious International Tournament where he is representing his Nation India. Take action @IndianFootball," wrote one netizen. What is Jeakson Singh doing with a secessionist flag. Doesn't he know that this is not a state /regional level competition rather a prestigious International Tournament where he is representing his Nation India. Take action @IndianFootball pic.twitter.com/d1dvLj9sNn — Siam Boy (@Aamtolzo) July 4, 2023 × "Playing for India and wearing Meitei secessionist Flag begs the question of loyalty of Jeakson Singh to the Indian Nation. The entire stadium abounds with the national flag and he chose to drape himself in this anti-national symbol??" added another. Meanwhile, another user wrote: "Jeakson you’re brilliant in the field and heart. Keep shining. What a character you got brother. Your intentions of highlighting Manipur for peace restoration is well received. We all are with you Champ." Jeakson releases statement After the controversy snowballed, Singh released a statement saying his intention was not to hurt sentiments. Instead, he wanted to bring the Manipur violence issue to notice. “Dear Fans, By celebrating in the flag, I did not want to hurt the sentiments of anyone. I intended to bring notice to the issues that my home state, Manipur, is facing currently. This win tonight is dedicated to all the Indians,” he wrote on social media. “I hope that peace returns to my home state of Manipur. Thank you to the fans for coming out and supporting the team tonight!” added Singh, with hashtags “Save Manipur” and “Peace and Love” apart from “India” and “SAFF Championship 2023”. Dear Fans, By celebrating in the flag, I did not want to hurt the sentiments of anyone. I intended to bring notice to the issues that my home state, Manipur, is facing currently. This win tonight is dedicated to all the Indians. pic.twitter.com/fuL8TE8dU4 — Jeakson Singh Thounaojam (@JeaksonT) July 4, 2023 × What is happening in Manipur? The ethnic violence in Manipur started on May 3 when tribal groups, including the Kuki community, clashed with the ethnic majority of Meitei people — a non-tribal group, over economic benefits and quotas given to the tribes. After the initial round of violence, Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the state to take stock of the situation and requested for '15-days of calm' to simmer down the situation. His request seemingly worked as violence abated before flaring up again. The situation has remained tense since then as authorities fail to restore peace in the region. WATCH | Manipur violence: No end to Meitei-Kuki clashes × SAFF Championship finals India beat Kuwait in a hard-fought encounter, in front of a packed Kanteerava crowd. After going down one goal in the 14th minute, India managed to equalise in the 38th minute and took the game to penalties. Also read | SAFF Championships Final: India down Kuwait to clinch ninth title; Gurpreet yet again turns shootout hero Goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu once again proved to be the difference-maker as he saved two penalties, helping the hosts lift the SAFF trophy, for a record ninth time. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Manipur issue: Indian midfielder Jeakson Singh sports Meitei flag at SAFF Championship

<p><strong>India vs Myanmar live-streaming:&nbsp;</strong>The Indian football team is preparing for the Tri-Nation tournament, which is set to begin on March 22 and features Myanmar and the Kyrgyz Republic. India's opening match will be against Myanmar, and they will face the Kyrgyz Republic on March 28. The tournament marks the beginning of an important period for the team as they prepare for the AFC Asian Cup next year.</p>

<p>India has had a mixed record in their recent international fixtures, with victories against Cambodia, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong, but also a defeat against Jordan and a comprehensive loss against Vietnam. The squad selected by Indian coach Igor Stimac includes both experienced players and young talent, creating healthy competition for team positions.</p>

<p>Myanmar, India's first opponent, is ranked 53 places below them in the FIFA rankings. Myanmar failed to win any of their five games during the recent international break, including losses to Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. The tournament will take place in Imphal for the first time, and Myanmar will be hoping to improve their performance under the guidance of coach Michael Feichtenbeiner.</p>

<h2><strong>India vs Myanmar live streaming: Where to watch on TV and mobile?</strong></h2>

<p>Star Sports Network will televise India vs Myanmar vs Kyrgyz Republic football tournament live in India. All three matches of the tournament will also be streamed live on the Disney+Hotstar OTT app.</p>

<h2><strong>India vs Myanmar vs Kyrgyz Republic full schedule</strong></h2>

<ol>
	<li>India VS Myanmar – 22nd March (6 pm IST)</li>
	<li>Myanmar VS Kyrgyz Republic – 25th March (6 pm IST)</li>
	<li>India VS Kyrgyz Republic – 28th March (6 pm IST)</li>
</ol>

<h2><strong>India vs Myanmar playing XI (Predicted)</strong></h2>

<p><strong>India playing XI:</strong> Gurpreet Singh Sandhu; Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali, Mehtab Singh, Akash Mishra; Jeakson Singh, Anirudh Thapa, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Brandon Fernandes, Ritwik Das; Manvir Singh.</p>

<p><strong>Myanmar playing XI:</strong> Kyaw Zin Phyo; Hein Phyo Win, Ye Min Thu, Thina Htet Aung, Nanda Kyaw; Lwin Moe Aung, Wai Lin Aung, Kyaw Min Oo; Aung Kaung Mann, Hein Htet Aung, Aung Thu.</p>

<p><strong>When will India vs Myanmar football match be played?</strong></p>

<p>India vs Myanmar football match will be played on Wednesday, March 22.</p>

<p><strong>What time will&nbsp;India vs Myanmar football match be played?</strong></p>

<p>India vs Myanmar football match will be played at 6 PM IST.</p>

<p><strong>Where will&nbsp;India vs Myanmar football match be played?</strong></p>

<p>India vs Myanmar football match&nbsp;will be played at the Khuman Lampak Stadium, Imphal.</p>

<p><strong>Where will&nbsp;India vs Myanmar football match be live-streamed?</strong></p>

<p>India vs Myanmar football match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-myanmar-tri-nation-football-tournament-match-preview-playing-xi-schedule-live-streaming-details-574277">India vs Myanmar tri-nation football tournament match: preview, playing XI, schedule &amp; live-streaming details</a></strong></p>


India vs Myanmar live-streaming: The Indian football team is preparing for the Tri-Nation tournament, which is set to begin on March 22 and features Myanmar and the Kyrgyz Republic.

India vs Myanmar live-streaming: The Indian football team is preparing for the Tri-Nation tournament, which is set to begin on March 22 and features Myanmar and the Kyrgyz Republic. India's opening match will be against Myanmar, and they will face the Kyrgyz Republic on March 28. The tournament marks the beginning of an important period for the team as they prepare for the AFC Asian Cup next year. India has had a mixed record in their recent international fixtures, with victories against Cambodia, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong, but also a defeat against Jordan and a comprehensive loss against Vietnam. The squad selected by Indian coach Igor Stimac includes both experienced players and young talent, creating healthy competition for team positions. Myanmar, India's first opponent, is ranked 53 places below them in the FIFA rankings. Myanmar failed to win any of their five games during the recent international break, including losses to Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. The tournament will take place in Imphal for the first time, and Myanmar will be hoping to improve their performance under the guidance of coach Michael Feichtenbeiner. India vs Myanmar live streaming: Where to watch on TV and mobile? Star Sports Network will televise India vs Myanmar vs Kyrgyz Republic football tournament live in India. All three matches of the tournament will also be streamed live on the Disney+Hotstar OTT app. India vs Myanmar vs Kyrgyz Republic full schedule India VS Myanmar – 22nd March (6 pm IST) Myanmar VS Kyrgyz Republic – 25th March (6 pm IST) India VS Kyrgyz Republic – 28th March (6 pm IST) India vs Myanmar playing XI (Predicted) India playing XI: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu; Rahul Bheke, Anwar Ali, Mehtab Singh, Akash Mishra; Jeakson Singh, Anirudh Thapa, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Brandon Fernandes, Ritwik Das; Manvir Singh. Myanmar playing XI: Kyaw Zin Phyo; Hein Phyo Win, Ye Min Thu, Thina Htet Aung, Nanda Kyaw; Lwin Moe Aung, Wai Lin Aung, Kyaw Min Oo; Aung Kaung Mann, Hein Htet Aung, Aung Thu. When will India vs Myanmar football match be played? India vs Myanmar football match will be played on Wednesday, March 22. What time will India vs Myanmar football match be played? India vs Myanmar football match will be played at 6 PM IST. Where will India vs Myanmar football match be played? India vs Myanmar football match will be played at the Khuman Lampak Stadium, Imphal. Where will India vs Myanmar football match be live-streamed? India vs Myanmar football match will be live-streamed on the Disney+Hotstar app. Also Read | India vs Myanmar tri-nation football tournament match: preview, playing XI, schedule & live-streaming details

India vs Myanmar live-streaming: How to watch India vs Myanmar football match live on mobile & laptop

<p>All India Football Federation (AIFF) League Committee on Wednesday unanimously decided to postpone the I-League 2021-22 matches for the next round which were scheduled on December 30-31.</p>

<p>The Committee deliberated at length about the current situation wherein COVID-19 positive cases have been detected among participating teams in the ongoing I-League 2021-22, and also took into serious consideration Harsh Mahajan's suggestions to adhere to medical parameters, and move forward together without making any compromise on the health of the players.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-clubs-suspend-ticket-sales-as-italy-reduce-stadium-capacity-to-50-441232">Serie A: Clubs suspend ticket sales as Italy reduce stadium capacity to 50%</a></strong></p>

<p>This decision was taken at an emergency AIFF League Committee Meeting held via video conferencing today chaired by Subrata Dutta, Senior Vice President, All India Football Federation, and Chairman, League Committee.</p>

<p>"Besides, AIFF General Secretary Mr. Kushal Das and League CEO Mr. Sunando Dhar, Mr. Lalnghinglova Hmar, Mr. Chirag Tanna, Mr. Rochak Langer attended the meeting, while leave of absence was granted to Mr. Souter Vaz, Mr. Anil Kumar, and Mr. BK Roka. Dr. Harsh Mahajan, a Padma Shri, a member of the AIFF Sports Medical Committee was also present as a special invitee, as was Mr. Abhishek Yadav, Deputy General Secretary, AIFF," AIFF in a statement said.</p>

<p>"Dr. Mahajan, informed that there needs to be bare minimum contact among all for the next 5-7 days as studies indicate that both the Delta and Omicron variant can be passed onto other human bodies within the period. Acting on the advice, the Committee hence, unanimously decided to postpone the Hero I-League 2021-22 matches for the next round which were scheduled on December 30-31, 2021," the statement added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-must-focus-on-getting-better-as-a-team-not-individuals-says-manager-ralf-rangnick-441011">Manchester United must focus on getting better as a team not individuals, says manager Ralf Rangnick</a></strong></p>

<p>All players, staff, and referees have already been tested on Wednesday and will be tested again on January 1 and January 3, 2022 respectively. The League will review the situation once all test results come in on January 4, 2022, and reach a consensus thereafter including the next round matches on Jan 4-5.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, all the players who have tested positive have already been moved to isolation with AIFF monitoring and arranging for subsequent regular medical consultations.&nbsp;</p>


All India Football Federation (AIFF) League Committee on Wednesday unanimously decided to postpone the I-League 2021-22 matches for the next round which were scheduled on December 30-31.

All India Football Federation (AIFF) League Committee on Wednesday unanimously decided to postpone the I-League 2021-22 matches for the next round which were scheduled on December 30-31. The Committee deliberated at length about the current situation wherein COVID-19 positive cases have been detected among participating teams in the ongoing I-League 2021-22, and also took into serious consideration Harsh Mahajan's suggestions to adhere to medical parameters, and move forward together without making any compromise on the health of the players. ALSO READ: Serie A: Clubs suspend ticket sales as Italy reduce stadium capacity to 50% This decision was taken at an emergency AIFF League Committee Meeting held via video conferencing today chaired by Subrata Dutta, Senior Vice President, All India Football Federation, and Chairman, League Committee. "Besides, AIFF General Secretary Mr. Kushal Das and League CEO Mr. Sunando Dhar, Mr. Lalnghinglova Hmar, Mr. Chirag Tanna, Mr. Rochak Langer attended the meeting, while leave of absence was granted to Mr. Souter Vaz, Mr. Anil Kumar, and Mr. BK Roka. Dr. Harsh Mahajan, a Padma Shri, a member of the AIFF Sports Medical Committee was also present as a special invitee, as was Mr. Abhishek Yadav, Deputy General Secretary, AIFF," AIFF in a statement said. "Dr. Mahajan, informed that there needs to be bare minimum contact among all for the next 5-7 days as studies indicate that both the Delta and Omicron variant can be passed onto other human bodies within the period. Acting on the advice, the Committee hence, unanimously decided to postpone the Hero I-League 2021-22 matches for the next round which were scheduled on December 30-31, 2021," the statement added. ALSO READ: Manchester United must focus on getting better as a team not individuals, says manager Ralf Rangnick All players, staff, and referees have already been tested on Wednesday and will be tested again on January 1 and January 3, 2022 respectively. The League will review the situation once all test results come in on January 4, 2022, and reach a consensus thereafter including the next round matches on Jan 4-5. Meanwhile, all the players who have tested positive have already been moved to isolation with AIFF monitoring and arranging for subsequent regular medical consultations.

AIFF decide to postpone I-League next round on December 30, 31 amid COVID-19 outbreak

<p>Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri equalled Lionel Messi with his 80th international strike against Nepal in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saff-championship-india-lift-eighth-title-beat-nepal-3-0-in-final-421409">final clash of SAFF Championship</a> on Saturday (October 16). During the match that India won 3-0 for a record eighth title, Chhetri opened the scoring in the second half for Blue Tigers. It was his fifth goal in as many outings during this campaign to finish at the top of the scoring chart.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, the 37-year-old Chhetri has equalled Messi, becoming the second-highest goal-scorer in international football among active players. For India, Chhetri (49th minute), Suresh Singh (50th) and Sahal Abdul Samad (90th) were the goal scorers in this historic game.</p>

<p>India's sports minister Anurag Thakur congratulated Chhetri for achieving the feat. Taking to his official Twitter handle, Thakur wrote, "INDIA wins its 8th #SAFFChampionships2021 Title @chetrisunil11 scripts history as he equals Lionel Messi’s record of making 80 goals."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">FULL-TIME ⌛️<br />
<br />
🏆🏆🏆🏆C.H.A.M.P.I.O.N.S. 🏆🏆🏆🏆<br />
<br />
🇮🇳 3-0 🇳🇵<br />
<br />
✍️ <a href="https://t.co/Krscpgs4nu">https://t.co/Krscpgs4nu</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDNEP</a> ⚔️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAFFChampionship2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAFFChampionship2021</a> 🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackTheBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackTheBlue</a> 💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> ⚽ <a href="https://t.co/bcZwgDxGHn">pic.twitter.com/bcZwgDxGHn</a></p>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1449418126299308032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlueTigers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlueTigers</a> 🐯 win record eighth SAFF Championship 👑<br />
<br />
Read the full report 👉 <a href="https://t.co/m7BVNfteNs">https://t.co/m7BVNfteNs</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDNEP</a> ⚔️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAFFChampionship2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAFFChampionship2021</a> 🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackTheBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackTheBlue</a> 💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> ⚽ <a href="https://t.co/gvg9jmDK4M">pic.twitter.com/gvg9jmDK4M</a></p>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1449437949771145217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🤩 That Champions Feeling! 🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDNEP</a> ⚔️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAFFChampionship2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAFFChampionship2021</a> 🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackTheBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackTheBlue</a> 💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlueTigers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlueTigers</a> 🐯 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> ⚽ <a href="https://t.co/3K1yag5pFF">pic.twitter.com/3K1yag5pFF</a></p>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1449431159910273038?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">SAFF Championship as a player ✅<br />
SAFF Championship as a coach ✅<br />
<br />
Just <a href="https://twitter.com/chetrisunil11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chetrisunil11</a> showing his appreciation for former <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlueTigers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlueTigers</a> 🐯 captain &amp; current Assistant Coach Shanmugam Venkatesh 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDNEP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDNEP</a> ⚔️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAFFChampionship2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAFFChampionship2021</a> 🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackTheBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackTheBlue</a> 💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> ⚽ <a href="https://t.co/wQcksh2d7L">pic.twitter.com/wQcksh2d7L</a></p>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1449421880536879106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>India dominated possession in the first half but they failed to score any goal. However, captain Chhetri put India ahead minutes into the second half and even before Nepal could settle down, Suresh made it 2-0.</p>

<p>Sahal made it 3-0 when he tricked a few defenders after receiving the ball on the left flank at the stroke of the final whistle.</p>

<p>The final was the 12th for India in 13 editions, which also shows their domination in this regional tournament.</p>

<p>This is the Indian football team's first title triumph under head coach Igor Stimac, who faced criticism in recent times for his side's inability to win enough games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stimac also became the third foreign coach after Jiri Pesek (1993) and Stephen Constantine (2015) to clinch the title with the Indian team.</p>


Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri equalled Lionel Messi with his 80th international strike against Nepal in the final clash of SAFF Championship on Saturday (October 16).

Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri equalled Lionel Messi with his 80th international strike against Nepal in the final clash of SAFF Championship on Saturday (October 16). During the match that India won 3-0 for a record eighth title, Chhetri opened the scoring in the second half for Blue Tigers. It was his fifth goal in as many outings during this campaign to finish at the top of the scoring chart. Now, the 37-year-old Chhetri has equalled Messi, becoming the second-highest goal-scorer in international football among active players. For India, Chhetri (49th minute), Suresh Singh (50th) and Sahal Abdul Samad (90th) were the goal scorers in this historic game. India's sports minister Anurag Thakur congratulated Chhetri for achieving the feat. Taking to his official Twitter handle, Thakur wrote, "INDIA wins its 8th #SAFFChampionships2021 Title @chetrisunil11 scripts history as he equals Lionel Messi’s record of making 80 goals." FULL-TIME ⌛️ 🏆🏆🏆🏆C.H.A.M.P.I.O.N.S. 🏆🏆🏆🏆 🇮🇳 3-0 🇳🇵 ✍️ https://t.co/Krscpgs4nu#INDNEP ⚔️ #SAFFChampionship2021 🏆 #BackTheBlue 💙 #IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/bcZwgDxGHn — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) October 16, 2021 × #BlueTigers 🐯 win record eighth SAFF Championship 👑 Read the full report 👉 https://t.co/m7BVNfteNs#INDNEP ⚔️ #SAFFChampionship2021 🏆 #BackTheBlue 💙 #IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/gvg9jmDK4M — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) October 16, 2021 × 🤩 That Champions Feeling! 🤩#INDNEP ⚔️ #SAFFChampionship2021 🏆 #BackTheBlue 💙 #BlueTigers 🐯 #IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/3K1yag5pFF — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) October 16, 2021 × SAFF Championship as a player ✅ SAFF Championship as a coach ✅ Just @chetrisunil11 showing his appreciation for former #BlueTigers 🐯 captain & current Assistant Coach Shanmugam Venkatesh 🙌#INDNEP ⚔️ #SAFFChampionship2021 🏆 #BackTheBlue 💙 #IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/wQcksh2d7L — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) October 16, 2021 × India dominated possession in the first half but they failed to score any goal. However, captain Chhetri put India ahead minutes into the second half and even before Nepal could settle down, Suresh made it 2-0. Sahal made it 3-0 when he tricked a few defenders after receiving the ball on the left flank at the stroke of the final whistle. The final was the 12th for India in 13 editions, which also shows their domination in this regional tournament. This is the Indian football team's first title triumph under head coach Igor Stimac, who faced criticism in recent times for his side's inability to win enough games. Stimac also became the third foreign coach after Jiri Pesek (1993) and Stephen Constantine (2015) to clinch the title with the Indian team.

Sunil Chhetri equals Lionel Messi as India win a record eighth SAFF Championship trophy

<p>India lost to Tajikistan 4-2 in the opening game of the Intercontinental Cup at EKA Arena here on Sunday.India, after taking a 2-0 lead in the first half, failed to maintain momentum as Tajikistan bounced back strongly in the second half of the match.</p>

<p>The home side had the perfect start in the early minutes of the game, as Sunil Chhetri converted a penalty into a goal, giving India an upper hand in the match.</p>

<p>Blue Tigers dominated the first half as Chhetri doubled the lead to 2-0 in the 41st minute. At the end of half time, the scoreline was 2-0.</p>

<p>Tables turned in the second half as Tajikistan came out with great enthusiasm and scored a goal within the first 11 minutes of the restart.</p>

<p>Komron Tursonov netted the opening goal for Tajikistan in the 56th minute.</p>

<p>Sheriddin Boboev equalised the lead for the visitor's and built the momentum in favour of the team.</p>

<p>Soon after, Muhammadjon Rahimov powered through the defence and slotted it past Gurpreet to put Tajikistan in the lead 3-2.</p>

<p>Panshanbe Ehsoni crossed it in for substitute Shahrom Samiev to volley it in for the fourth goal.</p>

<p>India's second-half substitute Rowllin Borges, who replaced Sahal Samad, had the opportunity to pull one back when Udanta Singh crossed it into him, but the midfielder skied his effort, as the match ended with a two-goal victory for Tajikistan.</p>

<p>India will play their next game against DPR Korea on July 13.</p>


India lost to Tajikistan 4-2 in the opening game of the Intercontinental Cup at EKA Arena here on Sunday.India, after taking a 2-0 lead in the first half, failed to maintain momentum as Tajikistan bounced back strongly in the second half of the match.

India lost to Tajikistan 4-2 in the opening game of the Intercontinental Cup at EKA Arena here on Sunday.India, after taking a 2-0 lead in the first half, failed to maintain momentum as Tajikistan bounced back strongly in the second half of the match. The home side had the perfect start in the early minutes of the game, as Sunil Chhetri converted a penalty into a goal, giving India an upper hand in the match. Blue Tigers dominated the first half as Chhetri doubled the lead to 2-0 in the 41st minute. At the end of half time, the scoreline was 2-0. Tables turned in the second half as Tajikistan came out with great enthusiasm and scored a goal within the first 11 minutes of the restart. Komron Tursonov netted the opening goal for Tajikistan in the 56th minute. Sheriddin Boboev equalised the lead for the visitor's and built the momentum in favour of the team. Soon after, Muhammadjon Rahimov powered through the defence and slotted it past Gurpreet to put Tajikistan in the lead 3-2. Panshanbe Ehsoni crossed it in for substitute Shahrom Samiev to volley it in for the fourth goal. India's second-half substitute Rowllin Borges, who replaced Sahal Samad, had the opportunity to pull one back when Udanta Singh crossed it into him, but the midfielder skied his effort, as the match ended with a two-goal victory for Tajikistan. India will play their next game against DPR Korea on July 13.

Intercontinental Cup: India lose to Tajikistan 4-2

<p>India set their sights on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup as Praful Patel became their first representative on the powerful <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revamped-fifa-club-world-cup-important-for-asia-gianni-infantino-208343">FIFA Council</a> on Saturday.</p>

<p>Patel, one of six Asian delegates elected to the Council at the Asian Football Confederation Congress, said the World Cup was the next big step for India after making great strides in recent years.</p>

<p>India's confidence has grown after a positive Asian Cup in January, where they returned to the tournament after eight years and were unlucky not to reach the second round.</p>

<p>"I personally feel that among all the countries in Asia there is a tremendous goodwill for India, and (also) China should be much more involved in the game and also the AFC and FIFA," Patel said in Kuala Lumpur.</p>

<p>"We should be putting our best efforts to make sure that the Indian team qualifies in 2026 for the World Cup," he added.</p>

<p>However, India are also searching for a new coach after Englishman Stephen Constantine quit following their Asian Cup exit after a last-gasp defeat to Bahrain.</p>


India set their sights on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup as Praful Patel became their first representative on the powerful FIFA Council on Saturday. Patel, one of six Asian delegates elected to the Council at the Asian Football Confederation Congress, said the World Cup was the next big step for India after making great strides in recent years.

India set their sights on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup as Praful Patel became their first representative on the powerful FIFA Council on Saturday. Patel, one of six Asian delegates elected to the Council at the Asian Football Confederation Congress, said the World Cup was the next big step for India after making great strides in recent years. India's confidence has grown after a positive Asian Cup in January, where they returned to the tournament after eight years and were unlucky not to reach the second round. "I personally feel that among all the countries in Asia there is a tremendous goodwill for India, and (also) China should be much more involved in the game and also the AFC and FIFA," Patel said in Kuala Lumpur. "We should be putting our best efforts to make sure that the Indian team qualifies in 2026 for the World Cup," he added. However, India are also searching for a new coach after Englishman Stephen Constantine quit following their Asian Cup exit after a last-gasp defeat to Bahrain.

India earn top FIFA seat, eye 2026 World Cup

<p>India's hopes to qualify for the maiden knock-out round berth were shattered after losing to Bahrain in the final Group A match at Al-Sharjah Stadium on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India defended well throughout the match but in the 90th minute, Bahrain was given a penalty when&nbsp;India captain Pronay Halder committed a careless tackle inside the box.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bahrain's&nbsp;Jamal Rashid, without making a mistake, hit the winner and booked a knock-out berth for his team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India finished outside the top two after the group's other game between UAE and Thailand ended in a 1-1 draw.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">⏱ FULL-TIME:<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bahrain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bahrain</a> are through to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsianCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsianCup2019</a> round of 16!<br />
<br />
🇮🇳 India 0-1 Bahrain 🇧🇭 <a href="https://t.co/2ylGSJJenv">pic.twitter.com/2ylGSJJenv</a></p>
— #AsianCup2019 (@afcasiancup) <a href="https://twitter.com/afcasiancup/status/1084871338408529923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">30 minutes of absolute excitement to go! 🇮🇳🇧🇭🇦🇪🇹🇭<br />
<br />
What do these four managers have up their sleeves? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AsianCup2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AsianCup2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/pJqoDvUoAg">pic.twitter.com/pJqoDvUoAg</a></p>
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<p>Entering their final group game following a 4-1 win over Thailand and a 0-2 loss to hosts United Arab Emirates, a determined India held on for 90 minutes before conceding.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was India's fourth appearance in the continental showpiece, beginning with the 1964 edition, in which only four teams participated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In their next Asian Cup in 1984, India were knocked out in the first round and they suffered a similar fate in 2011, when they lost heavily to Australia, South Korea and Bahrain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the team under coach Stephen Constantine started the tournament with the demolition of Thailand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They were a shade unlucky against UAE and went down fighting, but looked determined against Bahrain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Blue Tigers started off shakily after losing defender Anas Edathodika to injury as early as the second minute, but Sandesh Jhingan and his colleagues managed to stave off the Bahrain strikers until the blunder inside the box.&nbsp;</p>


India's hopes to qualify for the maiden knock-out round berth were shattered after losing to Bahrain in the final Group A match at Al-Sharjah Stadium on Monday. India defended well throughout the match but in the 90th minute, Bahrain was given a penalty when India captain Pronay Halder committed a careless tackle inside the box.

India's hopes to qualify for the maiden knock-out round berth were shattered after losing to Bahrain in the final Group A match at Al-Sharjah Stadium on Monday. India defended well throughout the match but in the 90th minute, Bahrain was given a penalty when India captain Pronay Halder committed a careless tackle inside the box. Bahrain's Jamal Rashid, without making a mistake, hit the winner and booked a knock-out berth for his team. India finished outside the top two after the group's other game between UAE and Thailand ended in a 1-1 draw. ⏱ FULL-TIME:#Bahrain are through to the #AsianCup2019 round of 16! 🇮🇳 India 0-1 Bahrain 🇧🇭 pic.twitter.com/2ylGSJJenv — #AsianCup2019 (@afcasiancup) January 14, 2019 × 30 minutes of absolute excitement to go! 🇮🇳🇧🇭🇦🇪🇹🇭 What do these four managers have up their sleeves? #AsianCup2019 pic.twitter.com/pJqoDvUoAg — #AsianCup2019 (@afcasiancup) January 14, 2019 × Entering their final group game following a 4-1 win over Thailand and a 0-2 loss to hosts United Arab Emirates, a determined India held on for 90 minutes before conceding. This was India's fourth appearance in the continental showpiece, beginning with the 1964 edition, in which only four teams participated. In their next Asian Cup in 1984, India were knocked out in the first round and they suffered a similar fate in 2011, when they lost heavily to Australia, South Korea and Bahrain. However, the team under coach Stephen Constantine started the tournament with the demolition of Thailand. They were a shade unlucky against UAE and went down fighting, but looked determined against Bahrain. The Blue Tigers started off shakily after losing defender Anas Edathodika to injury as early as the second minute, but Sandesh Jhingan and his colleagues managed to stave off the Bahrain strikers until the blunder inside the box.

India out of Asian Cup after 90th-minute loss to Bahrain

<p>The 17th Asian Cup tournament, to be held in the United Arab Emirates from January 5 to February 1.</p>

<p>Here is all you need to know about the tournament:</p>

<p>-The Asian Cup is the pre-eminent football tournament in the vast continent, although it had inauspicious beginnings in 1956 when four teams played a round-robin tournament in Hong Kong, two years after the Asian Football Confederation was formed.</p>

<p>-Hong Kong's Chang Chi Kong scored the competition's first goal in front of 30,000 spectators against Israel, who won the game 3-2. South Korea went on to win the title ahead of Israel with the hosts third and South Vietnam fourth.</p>

<p>-It is the second oldest continental football tournament in the world behind South America's Copa America, which began in 1916.</p>

<p>-The tournament has been dominated by the traditional powerhouses of Asian football with Japan having won the most titles - their fourth coming in a 1-0 victory over Australia in 2011.</p>

<p>-Israel won the title in 1964 and finished third in 1968 but did not take part in Asian competition after 1974 due to political issues with Arab nations. It moved to UEFA in 1994.</p>

<p>-South Korea won the first two tournaments and were losing finalists in 2015.</p>

<p>-Iran won three successive titles from 1968-1976 - their only victories in the competition - and are still the only side to win three successive tournaments. They finished third in 1980.</p>

<p>-Saudi Arabia won successive titles in 1984 and 1988 but were beaten 1-0 by hosts Japan in the 1992 final. The Saudis then won the 1996 title on penalties against hosts UAE.</p>

<p>-Brazil's 1994 World Cup winning coach Carlos Alberto Perreira has won the tournament twice, with Kuwait in 1980 and Saudi Arabia in 1988, and is the only coach to win two titles. UAE coach Alberto Zaccheroni could match him in 2019 having led Japan to their 2011 triumph.</p>

<p>-Iran centre forward Ali Daei holds the record for most goals in the tournament, scoring eight times in 1996, four of which were in the 6-2 demolition of South Korea in the quarter-finals. Daei also holds the career record of 14 goals.</p>

<p>-The tournament was held on a four-yearly basis until 2004, when the AFC decided to change the timing to avoid clashing with the Summer Olympics and the European Championships.</p>

<p>-The next tournament was jointly hosted by Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia in 2007 - the only time hosting rights were granted to more than one country. It was later called a 'mistake' by then AFC president Mohammed Bin Hammam.</p>

<p>-Australia became part of the Asian Confederation after the 2006 World Cup and won the title on home soil in 2015.</p>

<p>-The tournament was expanded from 16 to 24 teams for the 2019 edition. Kyrgyzstan, Philippines and Yemen will make their Asian Cup debuts in the UAE.</p>

<p>-The United Arab Emirates will be hosting the tournament for the second time after edging out Iran in the bidding. They were runners-up on home soil in 1996.</p>

<p>-Eight stadiums will host matches: Zayed Sports City Stadium, Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium and Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi, Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum Stadium and Al-Maktoum Stadium in Dubai, Hazza bin Zayed Stadium and Khalifa bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain as well as Sharjah Stadium.</p>

<p>-The Zayed Sports City Stadium, which was built in 1980 and has a capacity of 45,000, will host eight matches, including the opener on Jan. 5 between the hosts and Bahrain and the final on Feb. 1.</p>

<p>-The winners of the tournament will represent Asia in the 2021 Confederations Cup.</p>


The 17th Asian Cup tournament, to be held in the United Arab Emirates from January 5 to February 1. Here is all you need to know about the tournament: -The Asian Cup is the pre-eminent football tournament in the vast continent, although it had inauspicious beginnings in 1956 when four teams played a round-robin tournament in Hong Kong, two years after the Asian Football Confederation was formed.

The 17th Asian Cup tournament, to be held in the United Arab Emirates from January 5 to February 1. Here is all you need to know about the tournament: -The Asian Cup is the pre-eminent football tournament in the vast continent, although it had inauspicious beginnings in 1956 when four teams played a round-robin tournament in Hong Kong, two years after the Asian Football Confederation was formed. -Hong Kong's Chang Chi Kong scored the competition's first goal in front of 30,000 spectators against Israel, who won the game 3-2. South Korea went on to win the title ahead of Israel with the hosts third and South Vietnam fourth. -It is the second oldest continental football tournament in the world behind South America's Copa America, which began in 1916. -The tournament has been dominated by the traditional powerhouses of Asian football with Japan having won the most titles - their fourth coming in a 1-0 victory over Australia in 2011. -Israel won the title in 1964 and finished third in 1968 but did not take part in Asian competition after 1974 due to political issues with Arab nations. It moved to UEFA in 1994. -South Korea won the first two tournaments and were losing finalists in 2015. -Iran won three successive titles from 1968-1976 - their only victories in the competition - and are still the only side to win three successive tournaments. They finished third in 1980. -Saudi Arabia won successive titles in 1984 and 1988 but were beaten 1-0 by hosts Japan in the 1992 final. The Saudis then won the 1996 title on penalties against hosts UAE. -Brazil's 1994 World Cup winning coach Carlos Alberto Perreira has won the tournament twice, with Kuwait in 1980 and Saudi Arabia in 1988, and is the only coach to win two titles. UAE coach Alberto Zaccheroni could match him in 2019 having led Japan to their 2011 triumph. -Iran centre forward Ali Daei holds the record for most goals in the tournament, scoring eight times in 1996, four of which were in the 6-2 demolition of South Korea in the quarter-finals. Daei also holds the career record of 14 goals. -The tournament was held on a four-yearly basis until 2004, when the AFC decided to change the timing to avoid clashing with the Summer Olympics and the European Championships. -The next tournament was jointly hosted by Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia in 2007 - the only time hosting rights were granted to more than one country. It was later called a 'mistake' by then AFC president Mohammed Bin Hammam. -Australia became part of the Asian Confederation after the 2006 World Cup and won the title on home soil in 2015. -The tournament was expanded from 16 to 24 teams for the 2019 edition. Kyrgyzstan, Philippines and Yemen will make their Asian Cup debuts in the UAE. -The United Arab Emirates will be hosting the tournament for the second time after edging out Iran in the bidding. They were runners-up on home soil in 1996. -Eight stadiums will host matches: Zayed Sports City Stadium, Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium and Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi, Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum Stadium and Al-Maktoum Stadium in Dubai, Hazza bin Zayed Stadium and Khalifa bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain as well as Sharjah Stadium. -The Zayed Sports City Stadium, which was built in 1980 and has a capacity of 45,000, will host eight matches, including the opener on Jan. 5 between the hosts and Bahrain and the final on Feb. 1. -The winners of the tournament will represent Asia in the 2021 Confederations Cup.

All you need to know about Asian Cup 2019

<p>Congratulatory messages are pouring in from every nook and corner of the country for the&nbsp;<a href="http://aninews.in/keysearch/keyword-search/indian-fifa-u-17-world-cup.html">Indian FIFA U-17 World Cup&nbsp;</a>football team who wrote a brand new chapter in the Indian football history by overpowering Italy U-17 national team 2-0 in a friendly match here on Friday.</p>

<p>Be it the flamboyant cricketer Virender Sehwag or an ardent football fan Abhishek Bachchan- nobody let the opportunity to praise the youngsters through their social media channels slip.</p>

<p>Taking to his official Twitter account, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports&nbsp;<a href="http://aninews.in/keysearch/keyword-search/vijay-goel.html">Vijay Goel</a>said,&quot;Great day! #India U-17 #football team defeats #Italy 2-0! Well done boys, proud of you all!&quot;</p>

<p>Former Indian opening batsman&nbsp;<a href="http://aninews.in/keysearch/keyword-search/virender-sehwag.html">Virender Sehwag</a>, who is famous for his witty remarks on Twitter apart from his explosive batting style, praised the Indian team for making `idli` out of Italy.</p>

<p>&quot;Yaay! We have beaten Italy.Congratulations to the under 17 @IndianFootball on the spectacular victory. Italy ki&nbsp;<a href="http://aninews.in/keysearch/keyword-search/idli.html">idli</a>&nbsp;ban gayi !,&quot; he added.</p>

<p>Aditya Thackeray comes out loud in support of Indian Football and time and again AIFF has expressed their gratitude towards this youthful vibrant leader.</p>

<p>The Mumbai-based leader urged everyone to watch the match before the kick-off and the avid football fan was following the action as it unfolded.</p>

<p>After Matos&#39; boys secured the victory, he could not hold his emotion back and congratulated the boys wholeheartedly.</p>

<p>&quot;Huge boost for India! @IndianFootball team of U17 lads won against Italy&#39;s Football Team of U17 2-0! Congratulations #IndianFootball&quot;</p>

<p>He added more: &quot;This win is a big win for India and a boost before the U17 World Cup in India! @IndianFootball&quot;</p>

<p>Praful Patel, President, All India Football Federation said,&quot;First entering the 100 club &amp; now India&#39;s U-17 Team beats Italy&#39;s U-17 Football Team. Way to go @IndianFootball #FIFAU17WC,&quot; Patel said.</p>

<p>Even the film industry didn&#39;t mince their words eulogizing the colts who pulled off the heroics last night.</p>

<p><a href="http://aninews.in/keysearch/keyword-search/abhishek-bachchan.html">Abhishek Bachchan</a>, an ardent football fan, symbolised this victory as &quot;a sign of things to come.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;Many congratulations to our Indian U-17 boys football team who beat Italy 2:0 today. Hope this is a sign of things to come. #BleedBlue&quot;</p>

<p>Stephen Constantine praised the entire team for the wonderful victory against the Azzurri.</p>

<p>&quot;Great result lads well done to the entire team&quot;, was what he tweeted yesterday following the 2-0 victory.</p>

<p>&#39;AIFF Player of the Year 2016&#39; Jeje Lalpekhlua who is going to hit the pitch tomorrow for Mohun Bagan in their quest for the second consecutive Hero Federation Cup, congratulated the boys for their astounding feat.</p>

<p>The lanky defender Sandesh Jhingan and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu also heaped their praises for the colts.</p>

<p>&quot;Congratulations to our u-17 @IndianFootball for this inspirational win, keep working hard and more results like this will come.My best wishes&quot;, was what Sandesh&#39;s twitter handle read yesterday.</p>

<p>Sunil Chhetri, who has already embossed his name as the highest scorer on the national colours for India, tweeted: &quot;Big result last night for our @IndianFootball U17s against Italy. Keep working hard and miracles will happen boys!&quot;</p>

<p>Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who has an all-win record as the National Team skipper until now, put a cosy picture of himself along with the U-17 squad on his official twitter handle and wrote: &quot;Good win for the @IndianFootball U-17 team against #<a href="http://aninews.in/keysearch/keyword-search/italy.html">&nbsp;Italy</a>&nbsp;U-17, im not surprised by it because i know these boys have the fight in them&quot;</p>

<p>The Asian Football Confederation lavished their praises for the Indian colts which would surely motivate them to scale a newer height in the near future.</p>

<p>&quot;A great result - well played India!&quot;</p>

<p>Earlier, Abhijit Sarkar (31st minute) and Rahul Praveen (80th) scored for the Indians either side of the break.</p>

<p>The match was part of the exposure tour of Europe for the Indian boys as they gear up for the FIFA&nbsp;U-17 World Cup to be held in India later this year.</p>

<p><a href="http://aninews.in/" target="_blank">(ANI)</a></p>


Congratulatory messages poured in from all quarters for Friday's performance

Congratulatory messages are pouring in from every nook and corner of the country for the Indian FIFA U-17 World Cup football team who wrote a brand new chapter in the Indian football history by overpowering Italy U-17 national team 2-0 in a friendly match here on Friday. Be it the flamboyant cricketer Virender Sehwag or an ardent football fan Abhishek Bachchan- nobody let the opportunity to praise the youngsters through their social media channels slip. Taking to his official Twitter account, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Vijay Goelsaid,"Great day! #India U-17 #football team defeats #Italy 2-0! Well done boys, proud of you all!" Former Indian opening batsman Virender Sehwag, who is famous for his witty remarks on Twitter apart from his explosive batting style, praised the Indian team for making `idli` out of Italy. "Yaay! We have beaten Italy.Congratulations to the under 17 @IndianFootball on the spectacular victory. Italy ki idli ban gayi !," he added. Aditya Thackeray comes out loud in support of Indian Football and time and again AIFF has expressed their gratitude towards this youthful vibrant leader. The Mumbai-based leader urged everyone to watch the match before the kick-off and the avid football fan was following the action as it unfolded. After Matos' boys secured the victory, he could not hold his emotion back and congratulated the boys wholeheartedly. "Huge boost for India! @IndianFootball team of U17 lads won against Italy's Football Team of U17 2-0! Congratulations #IndianFootball" He added more: "This win is a big win for India and a boost before the U17 World Cup in India! @IndianFootball" Praful Patel, President, All India Football Federation said,"First entering the 100 club & now India's U-17 Team beats Italy's U-17 Football Team. Way to go @IndianFootball #FIFAU17WC," Patel said. Even the film industry didn't mince their words eulogizing the colts who pulled off the heroics last night. Abhishek Bachchan, an ardent football fan, symbolised this victory as "a sign of things to come." "Many congratulations to our Indian U-17 boys football team who beat Italy 2:0 today. Hope this is a sign of things to come. #BleedBlue" Stephen Constantine praised the entire team for the wonderful victory against the Azzurri. "Great result lads well done to the entire team", was what he tweeted yesterday following the 2-0 victory. 'AIFF Player of the Year 2016' Jeje Lalpekhlua who is going to hit the pitch tomorrow for Mohun Bagan in their quest for the second consecutive Hero Federation Cup, congratulated the boys for their astounding feat. The lanky defender Sandesh Jhingan and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu also heaped their praises for the colts. "Congratulations to our u-17 @IndianFootball for this inspirational win, keep working hard and more results like this will come.My best wishes", was what Sandesh's twitter handle read yesterday. Sunil Chhetri, who has already embossed his name as the highest scorer on the national colours for India, tweeted: "Big result last night for our @IndianFootball U17s against Italy. Keep working hard and miracles will happen boys!" Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who has an all-win record as the National Team skipper until now, put a cosy picture of himself along with the U-17 squad on his official twitter handle and wrote: "Good win for the @IndianFootball U-17 team against # Italy U-17, im not surprised by it because i know these boys have the fight in them" The Asian Football Confederation lavished their praises for the Indian colts which would surely motivate them to scale a newer height in the near future. "A great result - well played India!" Earlier, Abhijit Sarkar (31st minute) and Rahul Praveen (80th) scored for the Indians either side of the break. The match was part of the exposure tour of Europe for the Indian boys as they gear up for the FIFA U-17 World Cup to be held in India later this year. (ANI)

Football: India beat Italy 2-0 in FIFA U-17 World Cup preparation

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