India will face the defending AFC Asian Cup Champions Qatar at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday. Qatar are currently the World's No.61 and Asia's sixth-best team and will put many challenges for the Indian team in the second game of Group A in the second round of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
The Indian team is coming after defeating Kuwait by 1-0 in an away fixture while Qatar will be facing the Blue Tigers after a commanding 8-1 victory against Afghanistan. So, they would like to continue their dominant run by beating India at the Kalinga Stadium.
India vs Qatar: Head-to-Head Record
India and Qatar are in the same group for the second consecutive time in the FIFA World Cup Qaulifiers. The Blue Tigers have yet to secure a victory against Qatar, having played three matches, with Qatar winning twice and one match ending in a draw. In 1996, India suffered a heavy 6-0 defeat against Qatar, but in 2019, they managed to secure a valuable point in Doha with a goalless draw. However, Stimac's side conceded a narrow 0-1 defeat at home.
Date
Tournament
Scoreline
"3 June
2021"
FIFA World Cup Qualifying - AFC
India 0 - 1 Qatar
"10 Sep
2019"
FIFA World Cup Qualifying - AFC
Qatar 0 - 0 India
"27 September
1996"
FIFA World Cup Qualifying - AFC
Qatar 6 - 0 India
Match Details:
Fixture: India vs Qatar: FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
From World Cup to continental championships, discover the titans of global football and their achievements. We bring you the football teams with most international trophies with Argentina leading the pack. Check out who joins them.
In the sphere of international football, legacy is not built on sentiment but on unmatched achivement. What truly counts for a national team are the trophies won at the global stage, leaving everyone behind in the race!
This list will provide you an overview of the football teams with most international trophies. Read the full article to know about their dominance in the world of football.
1. Argentina (23 international trophies)
Argentina lifting the FIFA World Cup 2022. Image | Mint
Argentina stands as the titan in international football, having 23 trophies in their cabinet, with a rich legacy shaped by raw talent and passionate play.
Their identity is deeply rooted in the genius of legendary players such as Diego Maradona, whose individual brilliance almost single-handedly sealed the 1986 World Cup, and Lionel Messi, who finally cemented his legacy in 2022 World Cup after years of carrying the team's hope.
Brazil lifting the Confederations Cup in 2013. Image | FIFA
One of the greatest footballing nations, Brazil, holds 20 international trophies in their stunning cabinet. They are widely recognised as a nation that produce players who redefine the sport.
Legendary figures like Pele, Garrincha, and modern maestros like Ronaldinho and Romario, have all contributed to Brazil's success in achieving this milestone. Their contributions have not been just about winning, but about entertaining and inspiring.
Uruguay possesses a truly remarkable legacy in international football, regardless of its small population. They are just one trophy away to reach enter the twenties in their international trophies count, with 19 so far.
Legendary players like Obdulio Varela and Alcides Ghiggia, who had immense contribution in 1950 World Cup win, and more recently, Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez, have all profoundly shaped Uruguay's rich footballing narrative.
Mexico winning the 2023 COMCACAF Gold Cup. Image | Instagram
Mexico holds a proud legacy as the dominant force in CONCACAF football, known for their passionate fan base, technical prowess, and ability to frequently challenge stronger nations.
Hugo Sanchez, Rafael Marquez, and Cuauhtemoc Blanco, are some names served in achieving the 14 international trophies.
USA lifting the CONCACAF Gold Cup 2021. Image | NDTV
The USA has steadily built a legacy of growing competitiveness and professionalism, establishing itself as a successful team within the CONCACAF region.
Players like Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, and Tim Howard, have elevated the team's standing and inspired a new generation of American footballers. They currently hold the 5th place with 10 international trophies.
International trophy cabinet of the USA:
Tournament
Count
Years
CONCACAF Championship/ Gold Cup
7
1991, 2002, 2005, 2007, 2013, 2017, 2021
CONCACAF Nations League
3
2021, 2023, 2024
6. France (8 international trophies)
France lifting the 2018 World Cup. Image | Instagram
France holds the sixth place with 8 international trophies achivement elegantly with the efforts of world-class players and athletic brilliance. From Michel Platini of the 1980s to Kylian Mbappe, an explosive forward who's carrying the winning legacy in recent years, this team have come a long way.
Their contributions have led to some historic victories that shaped French football.
Germany lifting the 2014 World Cup. Image | Sportsnet
Germany's legacy in international football is built on resilience, discipline and strong winning mentality. They have won 8international trophies which gracefully shine in their cabinet.
Legendary players like Franz Beckenbauer, the elegant "Der Kaiser" who revolutionized the sweeper role; Gerd Muller, the prolific striker; and Lothar Matthaus, a midfield powerhouse, have shaped the team's consistent success.
International trophy cabinet of Germany:
Tournament
Count
Years
World Cup
4
1954, 1974, 1990, 2014
European Championship
3
1972, 1980, 1996
Confederations Cup
1
2017
8. Egypt (7 international trophies)
Egypt lifts the AFCON in 2010. Image | CAF Online
Egypt holds an unparalleled legacy as the most successful nation in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations, having great consistency and dominance on the continental stage.
The "Pharaohs" are known for their tactical discipline, and ability to perform under pressure in crucial matches, which brought them 7 international trophies.
The most memorable victory for Egypt was their achievement of winning three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations titles in 2006, 2008, and 2010, a feat that cemented their status as the kings of African football.
International trophy cabinet of Egypt:
Tournament
Count
Years
Africa Cup of Nations
7
1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010
9. Spain (6 international trophies)
Spain lifts the 2010 World Cup. Image | Sportstar
Spain's legacy in international football is linked to their "tiki-taka" style, a philosophy of possession-based, intricate passing football that brought unparallaled success.
This approach led to an era of consistent dominance, including a historic treble from 2008 to 2012. Legendary figures like Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and Iker Casillas were instrumental in this golden age.
Recently, the new generation talents like Lamine Yamal and Pedri, has emerged, further contributing to add up the numbers of their international trophies, which currently counts to 6.
Italy won 6 internationaltrophies in their football journey, with four World Cup wins among them. They have the capability to rise when it matters most for the nation.
Legendary players like Paolo Maldini, Gianluigi Buffon, and others have left an incredible mark on the history of team's success. The 2006 FIFA World Cup remains a memorable victory where the Azzurri peaked.
International trophy cabinet of Italy:
Tournament
Count
Years
World Cup
4
1934, 1938, 1982, 2006
European Championship
2
1968, 2020
11. New Zealand (6 international trophies)
New Zealand lifts their 6th OFC Nations Cup in 2024. Image | Pinterest
New Zealand won 6 international trophies and all of them were OFC Nations Cup wins, reflecting their dominance within the Oceania confederation. Their strong team spirit and discipline gets them the ability to qualify for the World Cup despite being a smaller footballing nation.
Their qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where they remained undefeated in the group stage, drawing all 3 of their matches against strong opponents, stands as a particularly memorable achievement.
International trophy cabinet of New Zealand:
Tournament
Count
Years
OFC Nations Cup
6
1973, 1998, 2002, 2008, 2016, 2024
12. Cameroon (5 international trophies)
Cameroon lifts the AFCON in 2017. Image | Mint
Cameroon, known as the "Indomitable Lions," has forged a legacy as one of Africa's most successful footballing nations. They have achieved 5 international trophies so far, and are in own by their raw power, athleticism, and a fearless, adventurous approach to the game.
The 1990 FIFA World Cup remains their most memorable victory, where they shocked reigning champions Argentina in the opening match and became the first African team to reach the quarter-finals, with their commendable performances.
Australia lifts the AFC Asian Cup in 2015. Image | Socceroos
Australia, also known as "Socceroos," have evolved from a dominant force in Oceania to a competitive presence in Asia and a consistent participant on the global stage of football.
They have won 5international trophies so far, with players like Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka being the central to their footballing journey.
A standout memorable victory for Australia was winning the AFC Asian Cup on home soil in 2015, that increased their status as a leading footballing nation within the Asian confederation.
Till now, along with the hosts USA, Mexico and Canada, ten other teams have qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026. For the first time, 48 teams will participate in the World Cup.
Australia celebrate qualifying for their sixth straight FIFA World Cup 2026.
The participating teams' line-up for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has started taking shape, as Iran and Argentina have booked their place from the qualification round into the finals of the tournament.
In 2022, the FIFA World Cupprovided an unforgettable experience for over 1 billion viewers who tuned in. LionelMessi-led Argentina to victory, giving the nation moments of joy and a fitting tribute to the late Diego Maradona while solidifying his place among players who have won every major trophy.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino and his team in their bid to improve the quality of the World Cup and promote inclusivity increased the number of teams that will participate in the World Cup from an initial 32 teams to 48 teams.
The teams will be split into 12 groups of 4 teams, with the top 2 of each group and the 8 best third-placed teams progressing to a new Round of 32,
The tournament will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be jointly hosted by 16 cities in three North American countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The tournament will be the first hosted by three nations and the first North American World Cup since 1994 and will be the first World Cup since 2002 to be hosted by more than one nation.
Qualification for the World Cup is done based on the regions of the World. Each regional Confederation is responsible for its qualification tournament, which will consist of at least one round of competition using the following formats
Confederations can use a League format in which each team in a group plays all other teams in their group twice – once at home and once away.
A single round-robin format in which each team in a group plays all other teams in their group once, with the venues either drawn at random or assigned by the confederation with the agreement of the playing association
A Knockout format in which each team in a round plays one other team over two legs once at home and once away.
With FIFA's permission, a tournament is held in one of the participating nations or neutral territory.
With FIFA's permission, a single-leg knockout format.
Europe has 16 slots, Asia has 8 slots with one extra from playoffs making it 9, Africa has 9 slots with one extra coming from playoffs,South America has 6 with one extra coming from playoffs making a total of 7, North America has 6 slots with 3 already taken due to the host nations.
Teams That Have Qualified
With qualifications still ongoing, the only nations that have qualified are the host nations, namely the United States of America, Mexico, and Canada qualification process for the World Cup will be ongoing till the end of November 2025, and till then, teams will be struggling to qualify.
1. The USA
Despite not predominantly being a football nation, the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) has managed to establish a formidable team with the likes of Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun.
The appointment of Argentinian Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach shows some sign of intent that the country intends to go as far as possible in the World Cup.
Mexico has qualified for every World Cup in the past decade, but playing on home soil will give them the advantage of fan support. While they may be without their veteran goalkeeper Ochoa, who has been crucial in past tournaments, they remain a team not to be underestimated.
Canada had a memorable 2022 World Cup in Qatar, highlighted by their surprising win against Belgium. However, they lost their remaining group games to Morocco and Croatia, leading to their early exit from the tournament.
Known for their attacking football, Canada relies on pace in midfield and attack, with Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies being key to their World Cup ambitions.
Teams from the Qualifier Rounds
4. Japan
Japan has become the first team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup from the qualification round. On March 20, Thursday, Hajime Moriyasu's side beat Bahrain 2-0 in Group C of the AFC World Cup qualifiers.
Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo scored in the second half to inspire the Samurai Blue to ensure their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance, guaranteeing a top-two finish in the qualifiers standings.
New Zealand has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the third time with a 3-0 home win over New Caledonia in the OFC Qualifiers Final on Monday, March 24.
Three second-half goals from Michael Boxall, Kosta Barbarouses, and Elijah led New Zealand to a comfortable 3-0 win at Eden Park in Auckland. This win marks the All Whites' return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010 when they registered three draws against Slovakia, Italy, and Paraguay in South Africa.
For the first time, the All Whites qualified directly for a World Cup, as Oceania received an automatic spot in next year’s 48-team tournament, rather than having to go through an intercontinental play-off as they did in the past.
6. Iran
(Image Credit | AFP)
Iran have become the second Asian side to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals following a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan on March 25 in the third round of the AFC World Cup Qualifiers Group A.
Mehdi Taremi's brace secured a point for Iran to stay atop the Group A table with 20 points in 8 matches, securing the guaranteed top two finish in the group stage. On the other hand, Uzbekistan is just one victory away from their inaugural World Cup appearance.
Tino pai to our fantastic national football team🙌 Mean as! Iran has secured its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the third team to qualify after Japan and @NZ_Football Ka mau te wehi 🇮🇷 This marks our fourth consecutive appearance after 2014,2018,and2022!#FIFAWorldCuppic.twitter.com/2RjE9j2gpa
— The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran (@iranembassy_nz) March 25, 2025
Despite the qualification format being made easier for Asia due to the expanded 48-team World Cup, Iran has sealed the passage to their fourth World Cup finals in a row, and seventh in their history.
In the AFC Qualifiers, the top two teams qualify directly for the World Cup, while the teams finishing third and fourth in the three Asian groups will enter an additional qualifying round.
7. Argentina
(Image Credit | EPA)
The reigning World Champions have stormed into the FIFA World Cup 2026 following a 4-1 crushing over eternal rivals Brazil in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers on March 26.
La Albiceleste currently top the table with 31 points in 14 matches, 16 points clear of seventh-placed Venezuela, with the required seven points at this point.
8. Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 as the 8th team to qualify till now. They have qualified in virtue of finishing in the top two in Group A of the AFC's third-round of qualifiers.
This is the first time they have qualified for the FIFA World Cup. Not only that, they are the first Central Asia country to qualify for the grandest stage of football.
South Korea qualified for their 11th straight FIFA World Cup after finishing in the top two of the AFC third round qualifiers. Tottenham's Son Heung-min, Wolves' Hwang Hee-chan, Bayern Munich's Kim Min-jae and Paris Saint-Germain's Lee Kang-in all will be ready to star for South Korea in the upcoming World Cup.
Ali Olwan scored a hat-trick against Oman to take Jordan to their maiden FIFA World Cup
While South Korea sealed their spot at the FIFA World Cup with that 2-0 victory over Iraq, their win also ensured that Jordan will be playing at their first-ever FIFA World Cup next year.
Ali Olwan's hat-trick has given them a big 3-0 win over Oman, and after South Korea's win, they will now create history at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
In Group B of the AFC Third round qualifiers, Jordan lost only one match and finished in the top two of the group, below South Korea.
Socceroos confirmed their place at a sixth successive FIFA World Cup after beating Saudi Arabia by 2-1 in Saudi Arabia. Connor Metcalfe (42), Mitch Duke (48) scored for the Aussies to help them win after falling behind by a 19-minute goal from Abdulrahman Al-Aboud.
Australia have now confirmed the top spot in Group C in the AFC Third round qualifiers. Japan are leading Group C, which have already qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Brazil continued their run at the FIFA World Cup after ensuring qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026. They are the only team to qualify for every FIFA World Cup.
The Selecao defeated Paraguay by 1-0 as Vinicius Jr. handed a special gift to new Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti for his 66th birthday.
VINIIII JR.!!!!
TINHAA QUE SER ELE!! BELO PRESENTÃO DE ANIVERSÁRIO PARA O MISTER 🇧🇷🇧🇷
National Football team coach Manolo Marquez has decided to resign after team's poor performance against Hong Kong in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.
Manolo Marquez, who could not even beat a weak team like Hong Kong, which is 26th behind the Indian team in the FIFA rankings, mailed his resignation to the federation the night after the match. The federation has decided to officially announce the resignation of the national coach around Wednesday afternoon.
Indian men’s football has endured a challenging 18 months, marked by a single victory in 16 matches since the start of 2024. A 1-0 defeat to Hong Kong in the AFC Asian Cup qualifier on Tuesday exacerbated the situation, bringing the team’s struggles into sharp focus.
Fan discontent with head coach Igor Stimac’s successor, Manolo Marquez, have intensified after a string of demoralising losses, including three consecutive goalless games against Bangladesh, Thailand, and Hong Kong, leaving fans questioning the team’s ability. India’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Asia Cup are now precarious, and speculation surrounds Marquez’s future.
Marquez has not formally tendered his resignation
Rumours of Marquez’s potential resignation had already started doing the rounds as sources suggest that the Spaniard, who replaced Stimac in July 2024, is contemplating stepping down within a year of his appointment.
However, an All India Football Federation (AIFF) source confirmed Marquez has not formally tendered his resignation. The federation awaits official communication from him regarding his intentions but that too many not be simple.
“He can do so only after mutual agreement, that the AIFF gives him permission to part ways," an AIFF source said.
“We have not got any request in writing from Manolo that he wants to leave from the job. We can apply our mind only after he informs us what he wants," the source added.
India must win their remaining four matches
India must win their remaining four matches to maintain any hope of qualification, currently languishing at the bottom of their group. While home and away fixtures against Singapore are scheduled for the October international break, Marquez’s presence for those games remains uncertain.
Discover the PSG phenoms Senny Mayulu and Desire Doue, who etched their names in the history of youngest goalscorers in Champions League finals after scoring against Inter Milan to win their first UCL title.
The UEFA Champions League final represents the pinnacle of Europeam Club football, a stage where heroes are crowned. For any player, scoring in this momentous match is a big achivement, and for a few, that moment comes at an astonishingly young age!
Dive into the list of 5 youngest goalscorers in Champions League finals, with the spotlight on recent additions of Paris Saint-Germain's Mayulu and Doue, who have etched their names on this exclusive list.
5. Lars Ricken (20 years 322 days) | 1997
Lars Ricken scoring a goal against Juventus in 1997 Champions League finals. Image | Bundesliga
In 1997, Borussia Dortmund's local boy, Lars Ricken etched his name into Champions League final history with a goal against Juventus. Coming on as a substitute, he took just 16 seconds to score the goal after entering the pitch!
At just 20 years and 322 days old, his impactful goal helped Dortmund secure a 3-1 victory, and it still remains one of the most iconic moments in UCL finals history.
4. Desire Doue (19 years 362 days) | 2025
Desire Doue celebrates after scoring a brilliant goal against Inter Milan in 2025 Champions League finals. Image | Instagram
The 2025 UEFA Champions League final saw a remarkably young talent make his mark on field. Desire Doue added his name in this list of youngest goalscorers with scoring twice (20' , 63') in the finals against Inter Milan.
He scored the second and third goal of the match, which significantly gave PSG a boost in this high-stakes match. His attacking style and dominant gameplay at just 19 years and 362 days of age, was great to watch.
Doue's name will be forever treasured in the books of PSG's success in UEFA Champions League.
Carlos Alberto celebrates his goal in the 2004 Champions League finals. Image | Instagram
Carlos Alberto of FC Porto scored a stunning goal in the 2004 Champions League finals at the age of 19 years and 167 days. He scored the first goal of the match, which eventually led to a victory of 3-0 against AS Monaco FC.
He delivered a memorable moment for the team and became the key figure in Porto's surprising triumph, that too, for their second UCL title.
2. Senny Mayulu (19 years 14 days) | 2025
Senny Mayulu celebrates after scoring a goal for PSG in 2025 Champions League. Image | BBC
In the electrifying final of 2025 Champions League, PSG got another young talent who didn't just play; he made history. Senny Mayulu, at just 19 years and 14 days old, became the second-youngest goalscorer ever in the Champions League final.
Mayulu scored the final goal in their 5-0 victory against Inter Milan, and his strike in a match of such immense pressure solidified his status as an emerging player for the Parisian giants.
Patrick Kluivert celebrates his 1995 Champions League final goal for Ajax. Image | Instagram
Topping the list as the youngest goalscorer in Champions League final is Patrick Kluivert. In 1995 final, playing for Ajax, he scored the decisive goal in the 85th minute, securing a 1-0 victory against AC Milan.
At just 18 years and 327 days of age, his crucial finish brought Ajax's fifth UCL title home, and established him as an iconic talent who made history in European football's grandest stage.
After Luis Enrique became only the sixth football manager to win the Champions League with different clubs, we present you with some interesting football facts about managers with the most UCL titles in their careers.
In Europe, the Champions League is seen as the most demanding title among players, managers, and clubs from all over Europe. The Giant clubs compete for this specific trophy every year, with the prestige and financial rewards received from the tournament being among the biggest in club football.
Achieving success in this competition is usually seen by most players and managers as the benchmark of club-level achievement in Europe. For many managers, winning the Champions League is the ultimate goal.
Some managers, however, have managed to win the competition multiple times, some with multiple teams as well. Without further due, here are the interesting football facts of the five managers with the most Champions League titles.
Many regard Pep Guardiola as the greatest manager of his generation due to his success with all the clubs he has managed. The Spanish manager has won the competition thrice in his managerial career, two times with FC Barcelona and once with Manchester City.
Guardiola won his first Champions League title in his first season in charge of Barcelona, with his side defeating Manchester United 2-0 in 2008-09 as part of their first-ever treble. The former Barcelona midfielder was 38 years old at the time, making him the youngest manager to win the competition to date.
He won his second title two years later in the 2010-11 season, defeating the same opponent 3-1 in the final. Lionel Messi was the star of both triumphs, scoring both times.
Then he managed Bayern but wasn't able to bring any Champions League titles to the German Club. Finally, his 12-year wait came to an end when Manchester City defeated Inter Milan 1-0 in the Final of the UCL 2022-23 season.
Zinedine Zidane led Real Madrid in its most dominant period of the 21st century. The Frenchman won three titles with Los Blancos in three years in charge of the club.
Zidane won his first title just four months after he replaced Rafael Benitez as manager of Real Madrid. He led the side to defeat Atletico Madrid on penalties in the 2015-16 final.
The next season, Real Madrid defeated Juventus 4-1 in the final for their 12th crown.
Zidane led Real Madrid to a 3-1 win over Liverpool in the 2017-18 final. The Frenchman is the only manager in history to win the competition three consecutive times. He is also the first and only French manager to win the competition to date.
Bob Paisley | 3 European Cups
Bob Paisley was a Liverpool soccer player, manager, and administrator for almost 50 years.
No football manager demonstrated the art of leading quietly and without ego more than Bob Paisley. He won twenty trophies in nine years for Liverpool Football Club between 1974 and 1983.
He brought 3 European Cups, six League Championships (including three in a row in 1981, 1982, and 1983), three League Cups, 6 Charity Shields, one UEFA Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup.
Paisley is the only British manager to win the European Cup three times. Bob is now regarded as one of the best soccer managers of all time.
Carlo Ancelotti | 5 Champions League titles
Carlo Ancelotti is one of football's managerial greats of the 21st century. The Italian manager has won five Champions League titles in his time as a manager, having also won the competition twice as a player.
Ancelotti won his first Champions League title in the 2002-03 season with AC Milan as his side defeated Juventus on penalties in the final. He won his second title in the 2006-07 season as AC Milan defeated Liverpool 2-1.
Ancelotti won his third title with Real Madrid in the 2013-14 season after his side defeated Atlético Madrid 4-1. His fourth title came in the 2021-22 season with Real Madrid once again after a 1-0 victory over Liverpool.
Follow Us
