“Why we need to strike balance in Indian Football at the moment” explained AIFF Secretary Shaji Prabhakaran in Easy Words

On the Path to Glory

Indian football is currently on a remarkable trajectory, achieving notable victories in recent tournaments. From clinching the SAFF Championships on home soil to securing a coveted spot in the 2023 Asian Games, the journey has been one of grit and determination. The forthcoming showdown against China in the opening match of the Asian Games promises to be a litmus test, underscoring the team’s preparations for this marquee event.

Addressing Loopholes and Finding Balance

While the Indian football landscape gleams with promise, there are discernible gaps within the current setup that demand attention. Shaji Prabhakaran, the incumbent secretary of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), acknowledges the pressing need to strike a delicate equilibrium in the Indian football ecosystem. As the sport gains momentum and players engage in a rigorous schedule of domestic and international matches, it becomes imperative to ensure their adequate rest and recuperation in preparation for significant tournaments.

Balancing Act in a Packed Season

Prabhakaran underscores the complexity of the situation, where every coach aspires to have their players at their prime for the maximum duration. However, the reality dictates that a harmonious coexistence of growing leagues and nurturing the national team is essential. The current season poses challenges, demanding a comprehensive overhaul, and not every aspiration may be fulfilled.

Strategies for the Road Ahead

In response to various reports from credible sources, the national team’s head coach, Igor Stimac, is expected to have a brief window of preparation time, approximately a week, for the crucial World Cup Qualifier match against Kuwait on November 16, 2023. The team will then return to their home turf for a match on November 21 in Bhubaneswar. Notably, the Indian Super League (ISL) is slated to commence from September 21, 2023, and its first leg is set to conclude on November 7 or 8 to accommodate the World Cup Qualifying Season.

Prabhakaran further emphasized that the Asian Games Camp will be limited to a concise three-week period. This strategic decision aims to equip the team adequately for India’s pivotal encounter against Australia on January 13, 2023, in the Asian Cup, a marquee event on the football calendar. As Indian football marches forward, it grapples with the dual challenges of harnessing talent and maintaining a harmonious football ecosystem, all in pursuit of global glory.