India is the tenth-largest economy and the second-most populous country on the globe. Cricket is the most popular game in India and football comes second. Even though FIFA ranks the Indian football team a dismal position 149, in 2020, things might look up for the team. Some major events are happening in 2020 that have a significant impact on the football landscape.
Change in Board of Directors of The AIFF
In the global space, the AIFF president has managed to secure a position as a Member in the FIFA Council after being elected in the last Asian Football Confederation (AFC) congress. His term as president is also coming to an end and in 2020, an election might occur to elect a new president.
In 2020 there is going to be a significant shakeup in the board of directors of the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The term for the current secretary-general is coming to an end and by the end of 2020, the board will have a new secretary-general.
Recognition of The ISL By the Asian Football Confederation League
Finally, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has recognized the ISL and this comes with good news for ISL winners as they will now proceed to the group stages in the AFC league. Runners up in the ISL have also not been left behind and they will also benefit from direct entry to the groups stage from 2021.
International Tournaments
In 2017 India hosted the under seventeen Men’s World Cup. India has again been selected to host the under seventeen (U-17) Women’s World Cup by FIFA. Ahmedabad will be the host city come November when the tournament will kick-off. The increased investment will be a significant boost to women’s football in the country both now and in the future. It will also help to grow the talent pool of women footballers in India.