For Indian football, 2024 was a year filled with disappointment, controversies, and major transitions. The men’s national team played 11 matches, recording six defeats and five draws, scoring only four goals while conceding 15. Despite initial optimism surrounding the AFC Asian Cup campaign, the year turned into one of the most challenging in the team’s history.
AFC Asian Cup: A Campaign to Forget
India began the year with hopes of a strong showing in the AFC Asian Cup, where they were placed in a tough group alongside Australia, Syria, and Uzbekistan. Unfortunately, the team failed to score a single goal in the tournament and managed just five shots on target across three matches. Conceding six goals in the group stage, India bowed out without making it to the knockouts, setting the tone for a frustrating year.
World Cup Qualifiers: Missed Chances and Controversy
India’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers began disastrously with a shocking 1-2 loss to Afghanistan at home, despite Sunil Chhetri scoring in his final international campaign. A hard-fought draw against Kuwait offered a glimmer of hope, but a controversial 1-2 loss to Qatar ended their qualification aspirations. The match against Qatar was marred by a refereeing error that drew widespread criticism and added to the team’s woes.
Igor Stimac’s Controversial Exit
Following the Qatar defeat, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) terminated head coach Igor Stimac’s contract, citing poor results. Stimac publicly criticized AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey, leading to a bitter dispute. The fallout concluded with Stimac receiving a $400,000 (approximately ₹3.36 crore) compensation for the premature termination of his contract.
Sunil Chhetri’s Farewell Leaves a Void
Amidst the turmoil, Indian football bid farewell to its talismanic captain Sunil Chhetri. In an emotional final match against Kuwait, Chhetri’s departure left a massive void in the team, as the search for a capable replacement has yet to bear fruit.
Manolo Marquez Takes Charge
After Stimac’s exit, Manolo Marquez was appointed head coach, inheriting a team low on confidence and struggling offensively. Marquez’s tenure began with the Intercontinental Cup, where India drew against the Maldives and suffered a 0-3 defeat to Syria. The remaining matches of the year saw draws against Vietnam and Malaysia, with India managing only two goals across four games under Marquez’s leadership.
Despite the lack of wins, Marquez introduced an attacking style of play that focused on dynamic midfield movements and sharper set-pieces, which has garnered some appreciation. However, the team’s inability to convert opportunities and the ongoing striker dilemma remain significant concerns.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As the year ended, Indian football entered a new chapter under Manolo Marquez. While the road ahead is challenging, the team and its supporters hold onto hope for improvement. Securing their first win in over a year and addressing the striker issue will be crucial objectives in 2025 as the team works towards rebuilding and finding its footing in international football.
