New Delhi: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has dismissed the coach of the men’s senior team, Igor Stimac. This action has been taken due to India’s disappointing performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. He was appointed coach in 2019. His contract was extended last year. A lot was expected from Stimac, who led Croatia to the World Cup semi-finals in 1998. Under his coaching, India won 2 SAFF championships, an Intercontinental Cup and a tri-nation series.

In the presence of this 56-year-old coach, India played 53 matches and lost 20 times, winning 19 times and drawing 14 matches. Overall gave 71 goals and scored 76 goals. India’s inability to advance to the third stage of the World Cup qualifiers has cost him dearly.