The Indian Football Team are set to miss the Asian Games 2022. The Government of India decided that only teams ranked 8th and above in the continent on respective fields will be allowed to take part. However, in the latest development, it has been revealed that IOA has sent the names for the men’s and women’s football team.
After winning the SAFF and the Intercontinental Cup, the Indian Football Team, ranking 17th in AFC was at an absolute high for the Asian Games. The women’s team, who are ranked even higher at 10th, were raring to go as well. However, the order from the government came as a blow, with fans urging IOA to take some steps, while AIFF Secretary General Shaji Prabhakaran has also made an appeal.
According to the govt guidelines, “For team events, only those sports which have achieved a ranking up to 8th among participating countries of Asia in the last one year, should be considered for participation in the Asian Games.”
The most recent revelation states that India might have a chance at the football medal. The men’s and women’s football teams’ entries have also been sent by IOA to the organizers. However, because they don’t meet the Asiad selection requirements established by the sports ministry, their ability to compete in the Games will be contingent on approval from the government.
