What Are The Chances Of Indian Men’s Football Team Winning Asian Games 2023?

What Are The Chances Of Indian Men’s Football Team Winning Asian Games 2023? After the Indian Sports Ministry eased ranking regulations, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) received the green light to send football teams to compete in the Asian Games for both men and women categories.  

Just recently, the Indian men’s football team learned about their group. The men’s team is placed in Group A, where they will face off against China, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. 

Well, the excitement is building as the teams gear up to represent India on the international stage.

When Is The Asian Games 2023 Starting?

The organizers have scheduled the Asian Games 2023 to begin on Saturday, September 23, 2023, and conclude on Sunday, October 8, 2023.

Where Is The Asian Games 2023 Taking Place?

The Asian Games 2023 will have China as the host country, and the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Expo Centre will host the event. Featuring a diverse range of 40 sports, the games will include a total of 482 events.

How Does The Indian Men’s Football Team Compare To Others In Their Asian Games Division In 2023?

In the 2023 Asian Games, Indian teams face tough opponents in their group, with China likely to be the strongest contender. India is ranked 99th in the world and 18th in Asia, while China stands at 80th in the world and 11th in Asia, having 96 more ranking points than India.

Myanmar holds the third-highest rank in the group at 160th in the world and 34th in Asia, while Bangladesh is at 189th in the world and 41st in Asia.

Considering the FIFA rankings, India has a good chance of finishing as group runners-up and qualifying for the round of 16. 

However, if they put up a strong performance against China, they could even clinch the top spot in the group. It will be an exciting competition to watch, and Indian teams must bring their A-game to secure a favorable position in the group standings.

Also Read: Can India Qualify For FIFA World Cup 2026? – Explained

Indian Football Team: Impressive Record Against 2023 Asian Games Rivals

Now if we talk about the records, India’s record against their 2023 Asian Games opponents shows some interesting stats. 

When it comes to facing China, India has yet to secure a victory in 12 encounters. Out of these, six matches have ended in draws, and China has claimed victory in the remaining six.

On the other hand, India has a better track record against Myanmar, having faced them 22 times since 1952. Out of these matches, India has emerged victorious in 10, while Myanmar managed to win four times. The remaining eight games resulted in draws.

Among the three opponents in the group, India’s historical performance against Bangladesh is the most impressive. They have played 27 games against Bangladesh, winning 12, drawing 10, and suffering only three losses.

Notably, India’s net goal difference against their eastern neighbor, Bangladesh, is positive, which sets them apart from the other opponents in the group. If India aims to top their group, they will have to create history by defeating China for the first time. The challenge is indeed tough, but the potential to make history is always thrilling in the world of sports.

Indian Men’s Football Team Squad For Asian Games 2023

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Maintaining the Indian football team’s current positive vibe holds utmost importance, and the approaching Asian Games will significantly contribute to preserving their visibility. This becomes even more significant following their recent cup triumphs, improved rankings, and an impressive 10-match winning streak. A strong performance at the Asian Games can elevate their position further and strengthen their preparations for the crucial Asian Cup scheduled for January.