Former Australian footballer Tim Cahill reckons it will be important for India to qualify for the AFC Asian Cup to be held in China in 2023. Igor Stimac’s men are already out of contention to qualify for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 but are in still chance with Asian Cup qualification.
On Monday, India beat Bangladesh 2-0 at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium thanks to talisman Sunil Chhetri’s brace, steering Stimac’s side to their first win in seven matches. The three points saw India move into third place in the standings on six points and a win in their final tie against Afghanistan on June 15 will confirm they finish in that position and advance to the third round of the Asian Qualifiers for the AFC Asian Cup China 2023.
“It’s very important and the exposure they get in these circumstances, the competition especially during the pandemic, during this difficult times is to maximise their competitive games,” Cahill, Australia’s all-time leading goalscorer, was quoted by ANI saying on Star Sports show’ Football United.
“It took many years for Australia to qualify for World Cup. And you know nothing is guaranteed to any nation,” Qatar’s Legacy Ambassador added. “To take part in the Asian Cup is a massive success for India, massive. Even when you lose you actually are improving,” Cahill pointed out.
Former Australian footballer Tim Cahill
