The Indian football team’s shocking loss to Afghanistan in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier at home has sparked a wave of outrage and disappointment amongst fans across the country. Notably, India’s 1-2 loss to Afghanistan significantly dented their hopes of qualifying for the third round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup 2027 Preliminary Joint Qualifiers. This loss is particularly stinging as it marks only the second time ever that India lost to Afghanistan at home, the first being back in 2013.
On the eve of the match, head coach Igor Stimac stated that he would resign if India did not advance to the third round of the World Cup Qualifiers, something the country had never done. The aftermath of this defeat has seen fans and critics calling for the resignation of head coach Igor Stimac. Fans have not held back in their criticism, with many taking to social media to express their frustration, pointing out Stimac’s poor tactics and controversial reliance on astrologers over professional analysis and informed decision-making. This reliance on astrology has been particularly contentious, casting doubt on Stimac’s tactical judgement and ability to evaluate players based on merit.
AFGHANISTAN SHOCK INDIA
The match itself saw India taking an early lead with skipper Sunil Chhetri scoring off a penalty kick in the 38th minute, a moment of joy that was short-lived. Afghanistan’s Rahmat Akbari and Sharif Mukhammad turned the game around with goals in the 70th and 88th minutes, respectively, leaving Indian fans in despair. Stimac substituted Anirudh Thapa, Naorem Mahesh, and Lallianzuala Chhangte for Brandon Fernandes, Liston Colaco, and Chhetri, respectively. However, these changes did little to increase India’s dominance, and instead, the visitors discovered an equaliser. The worst was yet to come for India, as the visitors delivered another blow to a helpless Sandhu, breaking Indian hearts. On March 22, India and Afghanistan drew their first leg 0-0 in Abha, Saudi Arabia.
The loss leaves India with just four points from four matches in their group, trailing behind Qatar and putting their qualification hopes in jeopardy. This defeat and the ensuing backlash against Stimac have underscored the deep-seated issues within Indian football, from questionable coaching decisions to the broader challenges facing the sport’s development in the country. As the dust settles, the calls for change grow louder, with fans demanding accountability and a new direction for the national team as they face an uphill battle to regain their standing and pride on the international stage.
Ananya Das is your guide to the latest trends, viral sensations, and internet phenomena. Based on a keen understanding of digital culture, Sophie navigates the ever-evolving landscape of trending topics. With an insightful and engaging approach, she explores what’s buzzing across social media platforms, ensuring readers stay in the loop with the most talked-about and shareable content online.
