Football in India, long overshadowed by cricket, has seen a steady rise in both popularity and performance, particularly over the last decade. The launch of the Indian Super League (ISL) in 2014 was a game-changer, bringing a new level of professionalism and international exposure to Indian football. The ISL attracted top talent from across the globe, and it played a crucial role in developing homegrown players, making football a mainstream sport in India.
The 2024 ISL season was one of the most competitive in the league’s history, with Mumbai City FC emerging victorious after a thrilling final against Kerala Blasters. Players like Lallianzuala Chhangte and Sahal Abdul Samad were standout performers, helping their teams navigate through a tough season. The ISL has not only produced star players but also significantly contributed to the rise in viewership, with millions of fans tuning in from across the country.
The national team, led by head coach Igor Štimac, has made significant progress as well. Sunil Chhetri, India’s legendary striker, continues to be a source of inspiration for younger players. In the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, India made it to the knockout stages for the first time in years, signaling the country’s improvement on the international stage. Players like Anirudh Thapa, Sandesh Jhingan, and Gurpreet Singh Sandhu have emerged as key figures for the national team, with many of them playing integral roles in the ISL.
Football’s growth in India can also be attributed to strong grassroots development. Several youth academies, like the Reliance Foundation Young Champs and the AIFF Elite Academy, have been nurturing young talent, and the results are starting to show. Indian players are now being scouted by clubs from around the world, with a few even making their way to European leagues, a significant step for Indian football.
The future of Indian football looks bright, with an increasing number of young players emerging from the northeastern states, where football enjoys immense popularity. With continued investment and support, both at the professional and grassroots levels, India’s dream of making it to the FIFA World Cup doesn’t seem too far-fetched anymore.