Football in India

Football is considered to be the most popular sport in India. It is also a team sport played between two teams of 11 players each. It is a ball game played on a rectangular grass field with a goal post at each end. The object of the game is to score by maneuvering the ball into the opposition’s goal-post. The team who scores the maximum number of goals is the winner. The rules of football are quite simple; you have to use your foot to guide the ball and pass it within your team mates and score a goal.

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has played an active role in promoting football, not only in the country but also in Asia. India was one of the founder members of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) in 1954. The AFC was formed when several Asian delegates met during the 2nd Asian Games in Manila in 1954.The AIFF had joined the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) in 1948.

They may not have scored as many goals as Pele. They may not be as quick as Maradona. They may not be lightning quick goal savers as Oliver Kahn, but Indians do have records that are still untouched; Indians have played some terrific football during the 50`s and 60`s; While the whole world was kicking the ball around with football studs, Indians faced them, drew matches and even managed to win a few playing barefoot.