Introduction

India’s quest to qualify for the FIFA World Cup has been a long journey filled with passion, determination, and growth. The country, known for its cricket achievements, has recently started to nurture its footballing ambitions. With FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, let’s delve into India’s road to the grandest stage of football, examining the strategies, challenges, and milestones that pave this path.

Historical Context

India has a rich footballing history, yet the national team has never qualified for the FIFA World Cup. The closest brush came in 1950 when India withdrew from the tournament despite being invited. Since then, efforts to qualify have been met with numerous hurdles, including infrastructure deficiencies, lack of investment, and stiff competition from more established footballing nations.

Strategic Overhaul

In recent years, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has undertaken a strategic overhaul to strengthen Indian football. The introduction of the Indian Super League (ISL) in 2014 has been pivotal. The ISL has not only increased the sport’s visibility but also attracted international talent and showcased local players’ skills. Additionally, initiatives like the FIFA-A