News for 'AFC'

AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup: India's Quarter-Final Hopes Rest on Victory Against Chinese Taipei

AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup: India's Quarter-Final Hopes Rest on Victory Against Chinese Taipei

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

India U20 Women's team must win against Chinese Taipei to keep their hopes alive for reaching the quarter-finals of the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup.

Sweety Devi and Panthoi Chanu Hospitalised After AFC Women's Asian Cup Clash

Sweety Devi and Panthoi Chanu Hospitalised After AFC Women's Asian Cup Clash

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

Indian football team captain Sweety Devi and goalkeeper Panthoi Chanu were hospitalised after sustaining injuries during their match against Chinese Taipei in the AFC Women's Asian Cup. The injuries occurred during a collision in the 83rd minute, leading to their team's defeat and elimination from the tournament.

India Women's Team Crushed by Japan in AFC Asian Cup Clash

India Women's Team Crushed by Japan in AFC Asian Cup Clash

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

India's women's football team suffered a heavy 0-11 defeat against Japan in their second group match of the AFC Women's Asian Cup. Despite the loss, India still has a chance to qualify for the quarter-finals if they beat Chinese Taipei in their final group match.

India Women Prepare for Tough AFC Asian Cup Clash Against Japan

India Women Prepare for Tough AFC Asian Cup Clash Against Japan

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

India's women's team faces a tough challenge against Japan in their second AFC Women's Asian Cup match after a narrow defeat to Vietnam. The team aims to maintain intensity and adapt tactically against the formidable Japanese side.

India U-20 Women's Team Gears Up for AFC Asian Cup with Bangkok Camp

India U-20 Women's Team Gears Up for AFC Asian Cup with Bangkok Camp

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The India women's Under-20 football team has arrived in Bangkok for a pre-tournament acclimatisation camp ahead of the AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup in Thailand.

India Face Vietnam in AFC Women's Asian Cup Opener

India Face Vietnam in AFC Women's Asian Cup Opener

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

India face Vietnam in their opening match of the AFC Women's Asian Cup, with concerns over India's lack of international game time.

Could a 64-team World Cup put Asian football at FIFA's mercy?

Could a 64-team World Cup put Asian football at FIFA's mercy?

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has acknowledged the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams, a move that could significantly alter the sport's economics and logistics, despite opposition from major confederations like UEFA and AFC.

Punjab FC Strengthens Squad With Mohammed Inam Signing

Punjab FC Strengthens Squad With Mohammed Inam Signing

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Punjab FC has announced the signing of Mohammed Inam, a talented footballer from Jammu and Kashmir, on a two-year contract. Inam, who previously captained Real Kashmir FC, brings experience from the Indian Football League, I-League qualifiers, and the Durand Cup to his new club.

'Ultimately, Indian Football Has To Be Built By Indians'

'Ultimately, Indian Football Has To Be Built By Indians'

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

'Our biggest opportunity lies with the younger age-group teams.' 'If you look at the senior national team, our chances are about 50-50.' 'The gap becomes smaller as you move down the age groups.' 'At the Under-20 level, it's closer to 60-40.' 'By the Under-17 level, it's around 80-20. That's where I feel we have our best chance.'

Ryan Williams Debut: India Look to End AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers on a High

Ryan Williams Debut: India Look to End AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers on a High

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

India face Hong Kong in their final AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier, with Ryan Williams set to make his debut. Both teams aim to gain FIFA ranking points and build for the future.

India U-20 Women Face Japan in AFC Asian Cup Opener with World Cup Qualification at Stake

India U-20 Women Face Japan in AFC Asian Cup Opener with World Cup Qualification at Stake

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

The Indian Under-20 women's football team begins their AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup campaign against Japan, aiming for a spot in the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup Poland 2026.

AFC Women's Asian Cup squad: Mix of youth and experience

AFC Women's Asian Cup squad: Mix of youth and experience

Rediff.com21 Feb 2026

India name six uncapped players in 26-member squad for AFC Women's Asian Cup in Australia, targeting quarterfinals and World Cup qualification.

Manolo Marquez: World Cup expansion dilutes quality, India needs grassroots focus

Manolo Marquez: World Cup expansion dilutes quality, India needs grassroots focus

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Spanish football coach Manolo Marquez has criticised the expansion of the FIFA World Cup, arguing it compromises quality and that countries like India should prioritise grassroots development over relying on increased qualification slots. He also highlighted the impact of naturalised players on international competition, citing his experience with the Indian team.

'I should've been India coach': Constantine blasts AIFF

'I should've been India coach': Constantine blasts AIFF

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former India football coach Stephen Constantine has expressed deep disappointment over the national team's current decline, criticising the All India Football Federation for its decisions, including the appointment of Khalid Jamil as coach despite his lack of international experience. Constantine, who led India to a historic FIFA ranking of 96, believes he should still be managing the team and calls for wider structural reforms in Indian football.

AFC rejects direct ACL 2 entry for ISL clubs this season

AFC rejects direct ACL 2 entry for ISL clubs this season

Rediff.com15 Jan 2026

'With the exception of any additional slot(s) allocated to a Member Association in accordance with Articles 3.4 and 3.5, Member Associations that fail to fulfil the Member Association Eligibility Criteria shall, subject to Article 4.4, be eligible to be allocated only indirect slots for the relevant AFC Club Competition.'

Authorities send kits made for junior teams to senior squad at AFC Asian Cup

Authorities send kits made for junior teams to senior squad at AFC Asian Cup

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The Indian women's national football team has lodged a formal complaint with the AIFF regarding ill-fitting kits received just before their opening AFC Women's Asian Cup match in Australia, citing a lack of professionalism and disruption to their preparations.

ISL clubs now risk losing AFC slots!

ISL clubs now risk losing AFC slots!

Rediff.com28 Dec 2025

AIFF waiting for AFC response over continental slots for ISL clubs in case of fewer matches

India concede late goal, lose to Vietnam in AFC Asian Cup opener

India concede late goal, lose to Vietnam in AFC Asian Cup opener

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

The Indian women's football team suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat against Vietnam in their opening match of the AFC Asian Cup, conceding a late goal in injury time.

AFC bans Mohun Bagan amid Indian football chaos

AFC bans Mohun Bagan amid Indian football chaos

Rediff.com17 Dec 2025

At a time when Indian football is staring at unprecedented uncertainty with its domestic season in limbo, the Asian Football Confederation on Wednesday delivered a triple blow to the country's top club

Why ISL Clubs Are Reviewing Their Commitment

Why ISL Clubs Are Reviewing Their Commitment

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Several Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have hinted at uncertainty regarding their participation in the 2026-27 season due to ongoing issues surrounding the domestic top-tier competition. The clubs are reviewing their commitment beyond the current season amid disagreements with the AIFF over commercial partnerships and league structure.

India Out of AFC Women's Asian Cup After Loss to Chinese Taipei

India Out of AFC Women's Asian Cup After Loss to Chinese Taipei

Rediff.com10 Mar 2026

India's campaign in the AFC Women's Asian Cup ended with a 3-1 defeat to Chinese Taipei, highlighting their inability to convert chances despite dominating the game.

Indian U17 Women One Win Away From World Cup Spot

Indian U17 Women One Win Away From World Cup Spot

Rediff.com10 May 2026

The Indian U17 women's team is set to play China in the quarter-finals of the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup, with a spot in the 2026 FIFA U17 Women's World Cup at stake.

AFC unveils Nations League to boost quality and revenues

AFC unveils Nations League to boost quality and revenues

Rediff.com21 Dec 2025

"By introducing a structured competition platform ... we aim to ensure consistent access to high-quality matches while addressing logistical and cost-related challenges faced by national teams."

AIFF Unanimously Adopts Revised Constitution, Introduces Key Changes

AIFF Unanimously Adopts Revised Constitution, Introduces Key Changes

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has unanimously approved its revised Constitution, aligning with the National Sports Governance Act (NSGA), 2025. This significant overhaul, decided at a virtual Special General Body Meeting, introduces a new election panel, mandates national anthems before matches, modifies foreign player rules in ISL, and updates the disciplinary code, aiming to enhance governance, transparency, and player development in Indian football.

September 4 Start Confirmed for ISL, But AIFF Defers League Structure Decision

September 4 Start Confirmed for ISL, But AIFF Defers League Structure Decision

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

The AIFF has approved a September 4 start for the 2026-27 Indian Super League but deferred a final decision on the league's governance structure, with further discussions set to continue between the federation and ISL clubs.

India U-17 Football Team Eye World Cup Spot

India U-17 Football Team Eye World Cup Spot

Rediff.com9 May 2026

India's Under-17 men's team faces Uzbekistan in their final AFC U-17 Asian Cup group match, with a win potentially securing qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

India U17 Football Team Ready For Australia Challenge

India U17 Football Team Ready For Australia Challenge

Rediff.com5 May 2026

India's U17 football team is set to compete in the AFC U17 Asian Cup, starting with a challenging match against Australia. Coach Bibiano Fernandes emphasises the importance of staying organised and focused throughout the tournament.

How India's Young Tigresses Roared Into Asian Cup Quarters

How India's Young Tigresses Roared Into Asian Cup Quarters

Rediff.com8 May 2026

India's U-17 women's team secured a historic 4-0 victory against Lebanon, propelling them into the AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup quarter-finals for the first time. Pritika Barman scored twice, fulfilling her promise to open the scoring, while Alva Devi Senjam added another goal in the crucial win.

Which ISL Clubs Received AIFF Licensing With Sanctions?

Which ISL Clubs Received AIFF Licensing With Sanctions?

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Seven Indian Super League clubs, including East Bengal, were granted the AIFF Club Licensing Premier 1 licence with sanctions for the 2026-27 season, while applications of several top-flight sides, including Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Kerala Blasters FC, were rejected.

India's U-17 Women's Team Makes History At Asian Cup

India's U-17 Women's Team Makes History At Asian Cup

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The India U-17 women's team achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the quarterfinals of the AFC Under-17 Women's Asian Cup for the first time, following a dominant 4-0 victory over Lebanon. Pritika Barman scored twice, while Alva Devi Senjam and Joya added to the scoreline, securing India's place in the next round.

India U-17 Football Team To Face Qatar In Friendlies

India U-17 Football Team To Face Qatar In Friendlies

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The Indian U17 men's football team is set to play two friendly matches against Qatar in Doha as part of their preparations for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026.

India U17 Women's Team Loses Final Friendly To Russia

India U17 Women's Team Loses Final Friendly To Russia

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

The India U17 women's team concluded their series of friendlies in Sochi with a third defeat to Russia, losing 3-0. This series was part of their preparation for the upcoming AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup China 2026.

Defensive Errors Cost India In U-17 Asian Cup Loss

Defensive Errors Cost India In U-17 Asian Cup Loss

Rediff.com6 May 2026

India's Under-17 AFC Asian Cup campaign began with a 0-4 defeat to Australia, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities and missed opportunities.

UAE Rout India U-17 Football Team In Friendly

UAE Rout India U-17 Football Team In Friendly

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The Indian U17 men's football team lost 1-5 to the United Arab Emirates in a friendly match in Thailand.

India U17 Women Must Beat Lebanon To Advance

India U17 Women Must Beat Lebanon To Advance

Rediff.com7 May 2026

India U17 Women's team face Lebanon in a must-win game in the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup, with a chance to qualify for the knockout stage for the first time.

India U17 Women's Team Loses To Australia In Asian Cup Opener

India U17 Women's Team Loses To Australia In Asian Cup Opener

Rediff.com2 May 2026

India's U17 women's football team lost 0-2 to Australia in their opening match of the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup in Suzhou, China. Theodora Mouithys scored for Australia, and an own goal by Abhista Basnett sealed India's defeat.

India U17 Women Secure Historic Asian Cup Qualification

India U17 Women Secure Historic Asian Cup Qualification

Rediff.com8 May 2026

India's U17 women's team achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup quarter-finals for the first time, following a dominant 4-0 victory against Lebanon. The team's progress was confirmed after other group results went their way. They will now face China in the quarter-finals.

India U17 Women's Team Suffers Defeat Against Australia

India U17 Women's Team Suffers Defeat Against Australia

Rediff.com2 May 2026

India's AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup campaign began with a 0-2 defeat against Australia, marking their return to the competition after 21 years. Theodora Mouithys and an own goal secured the win for Australia.

Expanded World Cup boosts India's qualification hopes: Bhutia

Expanded World Cup boosts India's qualification hopes: Bhutia

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia says FIFA's expanded 48-team World Cup format significantly improves India's chances of qualification while creating new opportunities for emerging football nations across Asia and beyond.

India U-17 to Face UAE in Thailand Friendlies Ahead of Asian Cup

India U-17 to Face UAE in Thailand Friendlies Ahead of Asian Cup

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

The India U-17 football team will play two friendly matches against the United Arab Emirates U-17 side in Thailand this month as part of their preparations for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026.