India Take on Strong Rivals in FIFA World Cup Qualification

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India is all set to face formidable opponents, including Qatar, Kuwait, and Afghanistan, in their journey towards FIFA World Cup qualification.

Sunil Chhetri, a football legend at the age of 39, continues to lead his nation with immense pride. He holds the record for being India’s all-time leading goalscorer and caps holder.

Sunil Chhetri’s eyes sparkle with hope and enthusiasm as he envisions India’s historic qualification for the FIFA World Cup, a milestone the nation has yet to achieve.

The Blue Tigers’ path to the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA commences in November 2023. The expanded 48-team tournament offers new opportunities for teams worldwide, with eight direct qualification spots reserved for AFC nations and an additional opportunity through the FIFA Play-Off Tournament.

Despite his age, Sunil Chhetri remains an indispensable asset to India’s quest. He is among the world’s top active international goalscorers, only trailing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. Chhetri’s passion for the prospect of India competing at the World Cup is unwavering.

The first leg of this challenging journey unfolds in round two of AFC qualifying. India is placed in Group A and will face off against formidable opponents, including 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar, Kuwait, and Afghanistan, who successfully advanced from round one by defeating Mongolia over two legs.

To advance to the third round, where six of the AFC’s eight direct qualification spots will be determined, the Blue Tigers must secure a top-two finish in their four-team group.

The journey begins with an away match against Kuwait on November 16, marking the first of six crucial games on the path to World Cup glory.

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