India vs Hong Kong is the upcoming match in the AFC Asi Cup 2023 qualifier as with two wins to their name, the Indian men's team will look to end the final leg of the Asian Cup Qualifiers on a high when they take on Hong Kong at the Salt Lake Stadium on Tuesday
India vs Hong Kong: Match Preview:
The Indian football team will lock horns with Hong Kong in their third and final Group D encounter of the AFC Asian Cup 2023 Qualifiers third round at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Tuesday, June 14.
Under head coach Igor Stimac, India secured their second consecutive victory in Group D after they pipped Afghanistan 2-1 in a thrilling encounter on Saturday.
After India's talismanic captain Sunil Chhetri opened the scoring for the Blue Tigers in the 86th minute, Zohib Islam Amiri equalised for Afghanistan just two minutes later. With India desperate for a win, midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad scored an important goal in the 91st minute to help India bag three valuable points from the clash.
Sunil Chhetri trains ahead of the Hong Kong match. (Image- AIFF Twitter)
Earlier, India defeated Cambodia 2-0 courtesy of a brace from Sunil Chhetri. With six points from two matches, India are currently placed second in the standings.
On the other hand, the Hong Kong football team thrashed Cambodia 3-0 to jump to the top of Group D standings courtesy a better goal difference than India. Matt Orr, Sun Ming-him and Philip Chan Siu-Kwan were the goalscorers for Hong Kong on Saturday. Earlier, Hong Kong started their AFC Asian Cup 2023 Qualifiers with a 2-1 win over Afghanistan.
If India win their clash against Hong Kong, the Blue Tigers will qualify for the AFC Asian Cup 2023 as group winners. On the other hand, if the hosts draw against Hong Kong, they will finish second in the group due to Hong Kong's better goal difference. However, India will still have a chance of qualifying as one of the five best second-placed teams across six groups.
If India lose against Hong Kong, the Blue Tigers will finish with six points. Even in this scenario, India will still have a chance of finishing among the five best runners-ups. A win, however, will be a favourable result for Chhetri and Co.
India vs Hong Kong: Head to Head:
India and Hong Kong have met 15 times so far, with the Blue Tigers leading the head-to-head 7 to 4. However, Igor Stimac's side last beat their opponents in 1993, having drawn once with them in 2006, while losing twice in 2009 and 2010.
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) June 13, 2022
Match Details:
India play Hong Kong at the VYBK on Tuesday (June 14, 2022) Match kicks off at 8.30 pm IST. Live telecast on Star Sports network Live streaming on Disney+ Hotstar and Jio TV Afghanistan play Cambodia in the other match of the day at 5 pm IST.
Predicted Line-ups:
India playing XI (probable): Gurpreet Singh Sandhu; Roshan Naorem, Sandesh Jhinghan, Anwar Ali, Akash Mishra; Anirudh Thapa, Suresh Singh Wangjam, Brandon Fernandes; Manvir Singh, Sunil Chhetri, Liston Colaco.
Hong Kong playing XI (probable): Yapp Hung Fai (goalkeeper); Yue Tze Nam, Yu Wai Lim, Fung Hing Wa, Wong Tsz Ho; Chan Siu Kwan, Huang Yang, Wong Wai; Law Tsz Chun, Matt Orr, Jahangir Khan
Inter Kashi were on Friday declared I-League 2024-25 champions after the Switzerland-based Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected the All India Football Federation's (AIFF) Appeal Committee's decision.
I-League, the second tier of Indian Football, was once the top-tier football league of the country, before the Indian Super League (ISL) replaced it. From 1996 to the 2006-07 season, the league was named the National Football League, and from 2007-08, it was rebranded as the I-League.
The league operates on a relegation and promotion system with I-League 2 and a first-only promotion system with the ISL, from the 2022–23 season. This means the I-League winners get a promotion to the Indian Super League, whereas the bottom team gets relegated to I-League 2.
Since the rebranding of the league, Dempo SC have won the league most times (3). Churchill Brothers, Mohun Bagan, Bengaluru and Gokulam Kerala have won the league twice.
Inter Kashi were on Friday declared I-League 2024-25 champions after the Switzerland-based Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected the All India Football Federation's (AIFF) Appeal Committee's decision of awarding the title to Churchill Brothers of Goa.
This made Inter Kashi only the third team to get promoted from I-League to ISL, after Punjab FC (RoundGlass Punjab), Mohammedan Sporting.
Why was there confusion about announcing the I-League 2024-25 winners?
On 31st May 2025, the AIFF announced Churchill Brothers as the I-League 2024-25 champions after its Appeal Committee ruled against Inter Kashi in a matter related to the fielding of an 'ineligible player'. Inter Kashi finished as the runners-up after getting two points deducted.
However, Inter Kashi filed an appeal against AIFF's decision on 4 June 2025. On 18th July 2025, the Switzerland-based Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) asked the AIFF to reverse its decision of awarding the 2024-25 season title to Churchill Brothers.
Inter Kashi thus now have won the I-League in their second season in Indian Football.
Former Indian national football team captain Sunil Chhetri has expressed deep concern over the suspension of the Indian Super League and the future of India's footballing ecosystem.
“The current situation that Indian football finds itself in, is very concerning. I’ve received a flurry of texts from players, staff members, physios, masseurs - not just from my club, but from other clubs as well,” Chhetriwrote on his social media handle X (formerly Twitter).
When my phone went off a few weeks ago informing us of a delay in pre-season by a fortnight, I must admit it made me smile. And that’s because I was on vacation, hadn’t moved as much as I would have liked to, and hadn’t been eating as clean as I usually do. I had more time than I… pic.twitter.com/pEGyr8Sp5O
Chhetri, who plays for Bengaluru FC in the ISL, wrote on social media, “I’ve received a flurry of texts from players, staff members, physios, masseurs – not just from my club, but from other clubs as well.
“Everybody in the Indian football ecosystem is worried, hurt, scared about the uncertainty we are faced with,” he added.
There is no new agreement between AIFF and FSDL
The 2025-26 season of the ISL has been put 'on hold' as the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and organising company Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) has not been renewed yet.
The Supreme Court has directed the AIFF not to enter into any new agreement with FSDL until a final decision is taken on the AIFF.
A 15-year agreement was signed in 2010
A 15-year agreement between FSDL and AIFF was signed in 2010, under which FSDL pays Rs 50 crore every year to AIFF in return for the rights to broadcast, manage and promote Indian football (including ISL and the national team).
Please stay calm - Chhetri
Sunil Chhetri appealed to all the players and support staff to maintain patience and support each other. He expressed confidence that football will resume soon. The AIFF has also said that it understands the importance of ISL, but it is compelled to follow the court's order.
“I may not have all the answers, but my message to all those involved with Indian football – and more importantly the ones whose livelihood depends on it, the players, staff, kitmen, masseurs, medical teams, production crews, operations staff – please stay calm.”
“We’ll ride this storm together. Stick together and look out for each other. Keep training and getting better. Football has to resume soon. It will,” Sunil Chhetri shared.
Indian Men's Football Team Drops 6 Places to 133rd, Lowest FIFA Ranking in 9 Years
The Indian men's football team dropped 6 rankings lower to 133 in the lastest FIFA World ranking update. Get the full story behind this significant dip the national squad.
The latest update of FIFA Men's World Ranking, released on July 10, 2025, brings in disappointing news for Indian football fans. It revealed that the Indian men's football team dropped 6 rankings to 133, putting them at the lowest standing in nine years (since 2016).
The team currently has 1113 rating points, positioned right below Congo and above Central Africa. But what exactly caused this dip for the Blue Tigers?
Let's dive into the details and reasoning behind the rank drop of the Indian men's football team.
Indian men's football team dropped 6 rankings to 133: What could be the reason?
The Indian men's football team practicing before the football friendly against Thailand in June'25. Image | The Bridge
Exactly a month before the FIFA World Ranking was released, the Indian men's football team faced a humiliating defeat of 0-1 against lower-ranked Hong Kong, in the Asian Cup qualification round match (on 10 June, 2025).
They had a momentum break before this qualification match, as they lost to Thailand (0-2) in an international friendly on June 4. Despite hosting intensive training camps and sessions, nothing worked for the team.
After a disastrous year in 2024, where the Indian men's football team did not win a single match, leading to a poor Asian Cup campaign and crashing out of FIFA World Cup qualification, the streak continued even in this year. Out of the four matches played this year, they won one, drew another, and lost two.
India recorded only a single win in 8 matches played under Marquez, which came in a friendly against the Maldives in March.
These results directly led to the rumours of the head coach's resignation, which culminated in Manolo Marquez's departure from the AIFF earlier this month (2 July, 2025).
Indian men's football team's best ranking was recorded in February 1996, when they found themselves at 94. In contrast, their lowest was recorded in March 2015, with 173rd rank in the charts.
The latest FIFA World Ranking update placed India at 133, following their disappointing performances in 2024-25. The last time India had a worse ranking was in 2016, placed at 135.
The above-mentioned performances and results are the sole reason why the Indian men's football team dropped 6 rankings to 133.
How can Indian Women's Football team qualify for the 2027 FIFA World Cup?
Good news for India! With the recent qualification for the AFC Asian Cup, the dream is alive for the Indian women's football team. How can Indian women's football team qualify for the 2027 FIFA World Cup? Explore their path and details here.
The ultimate dream for any footballing nation is to compete on the biggest stage like the World Cup, and for Indian women's football team, the dream feels closer now.
On July 5, 2025, India secured AFC Women's Asian Cup qualification with a 2-1 victory over Thailand. The sensational midfielder from Bengal, Sangita Basfore scored both the goals to seal this historic win for the nation!
This crucial win, added to their strong performances againsy Mongolia, Timor-Leste, and Iraq, marked their return to the Asian Cup after 22 years. This success has now fueled the high hopes and big dream of reaching the FIFA Women's World Cup.
Now the question is: How can Indian Women's Football team qualify for the 2027 FIFA World Cup? Let's explore the details below.
The AFC Women's Asian Cup. Image | Hindustan Times
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is the regional body for football in Asia, operating under FIFA. Crucially, the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 isn't just a continental championship; it's Asia's direct qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
For 2027, Asia gets six direct World Cup spots and two additional play-off chances. This means performing well in this tournament is absolutely vital for India's World Cup dreams.
They will have to fight for the World Cup spot against 11 nations (7 other qualifying nations from 2025, the host Australia, and the top 3 teams from the previous 2022 edition).
Teams qualified alongside India in 2025 Asian Cup qualifiers:
India's qualification roadmap for the 2027 FIFA World Cup
Winning moments from the decisive match against Thailand in Asian Cup qualifiers. Image | X
To reach the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, India's performance at the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 is everything.
Here's how they can make it possible:
Reach the semi-finals: This is the clearest path for qualification as all four semi-finalists in the Asian Cup will automatically be eligible to qualify for WC.
In case they don't reach semi-finals: If India reaches the quarter-finals but loses, there's still a chance. The losing teams will play additional matches against each other for the remaining two direct World Cup spots and the two play-off berths.
In short, India must aim to be among the top six teams in the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 to have a direct shot at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Discover the most promising U-21 footballers in India who are set to define the future of Indian football. Know about their current status and journeys.
The dynamic landscape of Indian football is on the cusp of a new era and set to be carried forward by a generation of young talent. Finding the most promising U-21 footballers in India is the key, as they are the ones who will decide where we stand next.
Let's take a look at some special youngsters who are not only catching the eye of coaches, but are also inspiring the youth with their skill, dedication and ambition.
Suhail Ahmad Bhat (20 years)
Suhail Ahmad Bhat practicing with the Blue Tigers. Image | Facebook
Born: 8 April 2005, Jammu and Kashmir
Position: Centre-Forward
Current team: Mohun Bagan SG
Suhail Ahmad Bhat is a 20-year-old promising young talent, who has quickly become a name to watch in Indian football. He made his mark with the Indian Arrows, and his progress led him to Mohun Bagan Super Giant.
He has consistently proved his ability to find the net and did well across various competitions like the Durand Cup, CFL, and Super Cup. His journey began with early recognition, even being featured by The Guardian as one of the best young talents globally born in 2005.
Suhail already represented India in U-16 (where he scored on his debut match) and U-23 level. He also recently got called up for the senior India national team and debuted in 2025.
Joseph Sunny captured between practice sessions for Hyderabad FC. Image | X
Born: 13 October 2003, Kerala
Position: Forward
Current team: Hyderabad FC
Joseph Sunny is a tall attacking striker who has emerged as a key player for Hyderabad FC. His strength lies in his style of play, which turns out to be really impactful for the team. He played in tournaments like the Kalinga Super Cup and I-League and made his ISL debut in the 2023-24 season.
Sunny has made his deserving spot in the playing XI for Hyderabad, featuring in most of their matches. His ISL performances highlighted his eagerness to contribute to the team and also his rising stature.
Korou Singh Thingujam (18 years)
Korou Singh Thingujam playing for Kerala Blasters in ISL. Image | Instagram
Born: 3 December 2006, Manipur
Position: Second Striker, Right Winger
Current Team: Kerala Blasters FC
Korou Singh Thingujam has rapidly risen through the ranks at Kerala Blasters FC, showcasing exceptional skill as a second striker. He initially made an impact by scoring on his debut with the reserve team, and then quickly earned his spot in the senior team.
His ISL debut in 2024 made him one of the youngest players to do so. He also got an extension of contract for Kerala Blasters till 2029, which highlights the team's faith in his abilities.
Korou was a part of the Indian U-17 team that won the 2022 SAFF U-17 Championship, and even scored in the final. He also got to play for the U-20 side in 2024, scoring 1 goal in 5 appearances.
Mohammed Sanan (21 years)
Mohammed Sanan playing for Jamshedpur FC in ISL. Image | Instagram
Born: 5 April 2004, Kerala
Position: Left Winger
Current Team: Jamshedpur FC
Mohammed Sanan is a talented young left-winger, who emerged from the Reliance Foundation Young Champs' (RFYC) academy. His strong foundation saw him get a long-term deal with Jamshedpur FC.
Sanan quickly made his way to the senior team, starting with the Durand Cup and later making it to the ISL. He is the most reliable young performer in the team, who also appeared in two games for the India U-23 team in his international career.
Bikash Yumnam is a 21-year-old solid centre-back who has established himself as a decent defensive presence. He has gained experience playing for clubs like Chennaiyin FC and Punjab FC, before joining Kerala Blasters FC.
He seems to constantly develop his game, along with focusing on positioning, tackling, and aerial abilities.
Bikash was a part of the 2022 SAFF U-20 Championship winning squad of India and was also a part of the U-16 team that reached the quarterfinals of the 2018AFC U-18 Championship in Malaysia.
Tekcham Abhishek Singh (20 years)
Tekcham Abhishek Singh playing for Punjab FC. Image | Transfermarkt
Born: 2 January 2005, Manipur
Position: Left back
Current team: Punjab FC
Tekcham Abhishek Singh is a highly praised left-back, known for his defensive solidity and energetic run. His journey began at Minerva Academy, from where he moved to Punjab FC and became a crucial part of the team.
Abhishek's impressive ISL performance led to a tug-of-war between major Kolkata clubs for his signature, ultimately leading his move to Mohun Bagan SG. He will soon be joining their side and will continue to play brilliant football.
After playing for the U-20 and U-23 Indian teams, he got a call-up to the senior national team under coach Manolo Marquez. He has already made his debut with the team and has a long way to go.
Nikhil Barla (21 years)
Nikhil Barla in ISL. Image | X
Born: 5 August 2003, Jharkhand
Position: Right Back
Current team: Jamshedpur FC
Nikhil Barla is a 21-year-old emerging talent who trained at the prestigious TATA Football Academy. He began his journey with Jamshedpur FC's youth and reserve teams, where he worked tremendously hard to transition into the senior squad.
Barla quickly became an integral part of their defence and gained significant experience playing in the ISL. This hardworking boy is steadily climbing towards his dream with immense discipline and dedication.
His consistent performance earned him a place in India's U-23 probable squad, and there's more to come!
Vinith Venkatesh celebrates a goal for Bengaluru FC. Image | NDTV Sports
Born: 31 July 2005, Bengaluru
Position: Midfielder
Current team: Bengaluru FC
Vinith Venkatesh made his senior debut in the 2024 Durand Cup for Bengaluru FC, where he also scored against Mohun Bagan SG in the semi-finals. He made his ISL debut in the same year, potentially growing his skills while playing alongside experienced footballers.
Bengaluru FC is a club known for youth development, and the inclusion of a talented youngster like Vinith makes the vision for the future even brighter. As a midfielder, he contributes to ball distribution, tackling, and both offensive and defensive transitions.
Sahil Poonia (19 years)
Sahil Poonia in his debut ISL match for Bengaluru FC. Image | Instagram
Born: 8 March 2006, Haryana
Position: Goalkeeper
Current team: Bengaluru FC
Sahil Poonia is another 19-year-old young talent who represents Bengaluru FC as a goalkeeper. He hails from Haryana and has worked really hard to come his far and keep up with the dynamic football world.
Poonia has already featured for India at various youth levels, including U-17, U-20, and U-23 teams, which is a strong indicator of his potential as a future national team goalkeeper.
Singamayum Shami (18 years)
Singamayum Shami in ISL. Image | Cricketnmore
Born: 18 April 2007, Manipur
Position: Midfielder
Current team: Punjab FC
Singamayum Shami is a highly exciting attacking midfielder for Punjab FC. He swiftly made his mark in his flourishing career and became the youngest goalscorer in the history of ISL (at 17 years) in 2025.
Shami had an exceptional ability to handle pressure and even score at those times. He was a part of the India U-20 team that won the SAFF U-20 Championship in 2025. Not only was he a key part of the team, but also earned the mostvaluable player award of the tournament.
Gurnaj Singh Grewal representing East Bengal. Image | X
Born: 9 January 2007, Punjab
Position: Midfielder
Current team: East Bengal FC
Gurnaj Singh Grewal is a promising midfielder who has been a part of the youth setup at East Bengal FC. He has an amazing ability to control the tempo of the game and initiate offensive plays.
He has contributed to East Bengal's reserve squad, contributing to their success, including winning the Calcutta Football League 2024-25. Internationally, he represented India at the U-17 and U-19 levels and was a part of the SAFF U-19 Championship-winning squad.
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