India

India

The India national football team, known as the Blue Tigers, is governed by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and competes in AFC competitions. India had its finest World Cup moment in 1950 when they qualified but ultimately withdrew. The team has won the AFC Asian Cup (then Merdeka Cup) and has been dominant in South Asian football, winning the SAFF Championship multiple times. India hosted and won the 1951 and 1962 Asian Games gold medals. The Indian Super League (ISL), launched in 2014, has revitalized domestic football significantly. Notable players include Sunil Chhetri, India's all-time leading scorer with international goals surpassing Messi, and Bhaichung Bhutia, who played professional football in England. India continues to rise in FIFA rankings under sustained development programs.