Sunil Chhetri is set for yet another record as he becomes only the third Indian to captain the team in two Asian Games (2014 and 2022). Sailen Manna (1951 and 1954) and Bhaichung Bhutia (2002 and 2006) are the other two. Indian Men’s Football Team will begin their Asian Games 2023 Campaign against China on Tuesday September 19th. The India vs China Live Streaming will be on Sony LIV and Sony Sports 5.
When India took on Indonesia in the first round of the 1951 Asian Games in Delhi, perhaps nobody realised it would be the start of a very special relationship between Indian football and the continental games. Two golds and one bronze medal later, India gear up to play their 57th match at the Asian Games. The first in nine years, against hosts China in the opening fixture.
While six teams participated in the inaugural games in the Indian capital, Hangzhou will have 21 participants battling for the podium. India are also joined by Bangladesh and Myanmar in Group A. The star of the show in 1951 was Sahu Mewalal, who netted in each of India’s three wins for the gold. The spotlight will be on Sunil Chhetri this time. The likes of Sunil Chhetri and Sandesh Jhingan, know exactly how different of a deal Asian Games football is.
Facing the hosts in the first game is always a great challenge. Matches in Group A will come thick and fast. With clashes against neighbours Bangladesh (September 21) and Myanmar (September 24) next in line.
Indian Men’s Football Team’s fixtures at Asian Games:
- September 19: China vs India (17:00 IST)
- September 21: India vs Bangladesh (13:30 IST)
- September 24: Myanmar vs India (17:00 IST)
Watch all matches live on the Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV.
