The All India Football Federation (AIFF) decided on Thursday to send two distinct national squads to compete in the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup in late September and an international friendly against Brazil on October 3 in Kolkata—a decision that drew sharp opposition from Bhaichung Bhutia.
Organised by FIFA to elevate competition across Southeast Asia, the ASEAN Cup runs from September 21 to October 6. India, Hong Kong, and China received invitations, though China declined. Placed in Group A of Division 1, India will face Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.
However, the event overlaps with the Brazil fixture, prompting the AIFF Executive Committee to confirm dual-squad participation. The federation will notify FIFA that separate teams will represent India in both events to maximise international exposure.
Former captain Bhaichung Bhutia strongly objected during the meeting, arguing India should prioritise the ASEAN Cup.
“I objected to the proposal. I said the first preference should be the FIFA ASEAN Cup. We should be part of that and play at that level. There will be very good level of competition against the likes of Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. And then you will also get participation money and prize money if you go deep in the tournament. I am not against the Brazil match, to be watched by nearly one lakh people.”
Bhutia shows displeasure at AIFF’s decision
Bhutia also raised alarms over AIFF paying an advance to Brazil, expected to be reimbursed through match sponsors.
“I asked is the federation is bearing any money (for the Brazil match). They said no, the AIFF is not bearing any money. But the AIFF is paying the advance money to Brazil, and later on that amount can be reimbursed through sponsors/private parties. I asked how the AIFF can take such a risk? Imagine if the private party cannot generate that kind of revenue, what will happen.”
He highlighted broader domestic challenges, noting: “Right now, clubs are struggling to get sponsors. Jamshedpur FC has withdrawn from ISL. At the moment, Indian football is in disarray. And the worst thing is, the budget they presented from the last season has a deficit of Rs 14 crores. So when you are minus 14 crores rupees, what are you trying to do?”
(With inputs from PTI)
