3 Reasons why Football is flourishing in India

 

The effort put forth over the previous few years under Stimac is beginning to bear fruit, two competitions, two victories, and a rise back into the top 100 of the FIFA rankings. Seven victories, two draws, and seven perfect games. That was the India tale in the SAFF Championships and the Intercontinental Cup. Here are some reasons below:

1. Igor Stimac dedication, passion for the National Team

Stimac, 55, assumed control in 2019. His playing resume was remarkable, and he also had somewhat impressive coaching credentials. Famous international athletes like Mateo Kovacic and Luka Modric played under the previous Croatian national coach. "Football is all about passion, especially when you defend the colours of your country," Stimac wrote after unnecessarily receiving a red card during the Pakistan game on the first day (June 21) of the SAFF Championships. You can love or despise me for what I did yesterday, but I am a warrior, nonetheless. India has begun to avoid playing the long ball style under Stimac.

Back in 2019, Stimac discussed assisting Indian players in developing their technical and physical skills in order to play an alluring style of football during the Hero Intercontinental Cup in Ahmedabad. After four years, the process is beginning to pay off. India has evolved into a forceful team that enjoys attacking with the ball in their hands.

2. Sunil Chhetri astounding form at 39 is crazy

Chhetri is undoubtedly the beating heart of both his club and his nation. Chhetri won the accolades for both best player and highest goal scorer during the SAFF CUP, contributing to five of India's eight goals. In the semifinal and championship shootout victory over Lebanon and Kuwait, he produced fearless, exemplary penalty kicks that put India on the right track.

Pradhyum Reddy assistant coach at Bengalaru FC in 2013 said  "He has done it in every way, including the way he takes care of himself, his diet, his sleep, his workouts, and his off-season work. In addition, he has a higher level of mental preparation than most Indian football players. He can compete at this level because of that. Our Indian Captain is still a go to man in clutch moments even at this age when many footballers quit the game. The greatest of our nation in football is still ruling, performing and inspiring the young lads to fall in love with this beautiful game.

Image Source: RevSportz

3. The support India showed for Football in past few months

All available seats for the SAFF Championship Final were gone. Despite the fact that it was a weekday, 26,380 people registered for the game officially. "I've been going to games for the last 10 years, but the atmosphere for the finals was out of this world," said Shane Lobo, a fan at the West Block. The crowd always believed we could win since everyone was having a good time and singing together. Earlier Odisha Chief Minister has announced a cash reward of 1 crore Rs for the Indian’s Men Football Team for winning the Hero Intercontinental Cup.

Especially if we talk about the West Block Blues the passion, commitment they have shown for the Indian football in recent months is unimaginable.

 

 

 

Image Source: Techno Sports