Getting into rhythm: The Indian gamers undergo their drill in Guwahati on Monday.
| Photo Credit: RITU RAJ KONAWR
India sought to infuse vibrant hues to its 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification marketing campaign the place it faces a rejuvenated Afghanistan in a second-round match of Group A, on the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, right here on Tuesday.
The Holi celebrations offered the proper atmosphere for the Indian squad to resume its guarantees for a higher end result after having performed out a drab goalless draw against the identical opponent whereas visiting its makeshift house in Saudi Arabian metropolis of Abha barely 4 days in the past.
The match right here assumes significance for India which is trying to make it to the subsequent stage (spherical three) of the World Cup qualifiers — which additionally doubles up because the qualification spherical for the ultimate stage of the 2027 Asian Cup — for the primary time.
Indian head coach Igor Stimac has asserted that he could be quitting his put up if the nation fails to progress within the qualification course of. Stimac, who has a contract because the Indian head coach until 2026, believes that the crew can advance to the subsequent stage if it delivers to its potential.
A win against Afghanistan at house will consolidate India’s place within the second spot the place it presently lies after three rounds with 4 factors in its kitty. Two groups will progress from every group within the present second spherical engagements.
India started its marketing campaign with a lot of promise because it beat a sturdy Kuwait 1-0 away on Nov. 16, 2023. It misplaced to the present group chief and Asian Champion Qatar 0-3 (on Nov. 21, Bhubaneswar) earlier than choosing up one other level against Afghanistan in its second away sport at Abha.
Chhetri, who will probably be incomes a historic one hundred and fiftieth cap in India colors, wished that his crew makes it memorable with a win against Afghanistan.
