Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has expressed his delight at the participation of the Indian men’s and women’s football teams in the upcoming Asian Games 2023. The Sports Ministry has granted permission for the Indian football team to compete in the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou, China.
“Great news for football fans across India! It will also encourage upcoming talent in this sport.” the honourable PM wrote on Twitter.
Indian Football Team SET to participate in Asian Games 2023
This follows the Sports Ministry’s refusal to send the football teams, claiming lesser rankings as the cause. However, following several appeals from supporters and the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the Blue Tigers were granted the go-ahead.
According to a circular published by the ministry, only national teams rated in the top eight in Asia would be permitted to compete in the Asian Games. Unfortunately, the men’s squad is now placed 18th in Asia, while the women’s team is ranked 11th in the AFC. However, the ministry approved admittance to the Asiad based on the performance of the Indian National Teams.
To this, AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey expressed his gratitude as the Indian Football Team play Asian Games after a gap of 9 years. The teams last played in 2014, following which they were denied allowance in 2018.
Blue Tigers paired with China, Bangladesh in Asian Games 2023, Tigresses face Thailand
According to a circular published by the ministry, only national teams rated in the top eight in Asia would be permitted to compete in the Asian Games. Unfortunately, the men’s squad is now placed 18th in Asia, while the women’s team is ranked 11th in the AFC. However, the ministry approved admittance to the Asiad based on the performance of the Indian National Teams.
The Asian Games 2023 draw placed India’s football squad in Group A, with China, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. The draw for the women’s football competition was also held in Hangzhou on Thursday. Indian Women’s Team will participate in Group B of the competition against Chinese Taipei and Thailand.
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