turf&threads

In 1951 India won the Gold medal in Football during the Asian Games. A feat that was celebrated all across the continent. By 1956, the Indian team advanced to the semi finals of the Melbourne Olympics and in 1958 they once again claimed Gold in the Asian Games. These achievements were ideal indicators of what was being called The Indian Football Dream.

So what led to such a drastic downfall?

Even with such immense potential, India had a very passive approach towards the sport due to lack of infrastructure, vision, and any sort of grassroots support. The meteoric rise of cricket in India also didn’t help. As South Korea and Japan focused on youth development programs and professional leagues, India struggled to keep up.

Now, sporting events such as qualifying for AFC Asian Cup which were considered routine have turned into a rare occasion.Let’s take a moment to think about the following:

Is it possible for India to recover the status of its Asian football powerhouse?

In terms of leagues and grassroots efforts, are we doing enough?

Are our coaches, players, and managers receiving the correct support for them to thrive?

While the past offers us some pride, football in India is screaming for purposeful planning. The country requires the right vision for its abundant talent.