Indian Football: Forgotten History And Towards To The Optimistic Future

    The journey of Indian football is very old, interesting and proud. The game became popular in India during the British rule in the mid. 19th century. 

    Mohun Bagan, a club formed in 1889, won the IFA Shield in 1911 by defeating the British team. And that match made football famous in India. Everyone celebrated this victory with patriotism. The 1950-60s are called the “Golden Era” of Indian football. When India won the 1951 and 1962 Asian Games under coach Syed Abdul Rahim. 

    They also qualified for the 1950 FIFA World Cup but for some reason the Washi team did not participate in that cup.

    Indian football is trying to re-establish its identity. The Indian Super League (ISL) is giving Indian football a new identity. Stadiums are improving, fans are growing, and foreign players and coaches are taking an interest. 

    The national team, to which legends like Sunil Chhetri have always contributed significantly. India's FIFA ranking in 2025 is around 110. Progress is being made, but a lot of hard work is still required to shine on the global stage. But one day that will be possible.

    The future is bright if we focus on grassroots football, youth academies, and women's football. The football craze, which has existed in a few regions, is spreading throughout India. Infrastructure improvements are unleashing new talent. If this environment continues, India will one day improve its global ranking and establish itself among Asia's top football nations.

Wishing them all the best!!!