India’s World Cup Qualification Hopes Hang by a Thread

India’s chances of progressing to the third round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers are on a knife-edge following a goalless draw against Kuwait at the iconic Salt Lake Stadium. With just one game remaining in the current round, Igor Stimac‘s side faces an uphill task to secure a spot in the next stage.

Kuwait, who are one point behind India with 4 points from 5 games, have a relatively easier fixture against Afghanistan in their final match. Meanwhile, Afghanistan, also on 5 points after a commendable draw against Qatar, could play spoilsport for India’s aspirations.

In the most optimistic scenario, India needs to secure a noteworthy victory against Qatar, while hoping for Afghanistan to at least secure a draw against Kuwait to eliminate the latter from contention. Realistically, a draw for India in their final match and a similar result for Afghanistan might see India progress to the third round based on goal difference.

Despite the odds, India has a glimmer of hope as Qatar has rested key players such as Akram Afif, Almoez Ali, Hassan Al Haydos, Bassam Al Rawi, Pedro Miguel, and Lucas Mendes. This strategic move by Qatar could potentially play into India’s favor in their must-win encounter.

If India does manage to qualify for the third round, they will be pitted against the top 18 nations in Asia, providing invaluable experience and exposure for the national team. Additionally, securing a second-place finish in the current group would guarantee direct qualification for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 to be held in Saudi Arabia.

As the fate of India’s World Cup dreams hangs in the balance, they will be looking to replicate their heroic performance from 2019 when they held Qatar to a goalless draw. In the meantime, Ashley Westwood’s Afghanistan will be tasked with thwarting Kuwait to give India a fighting chance at progressing further in the qualifiers.