The Indian football team has some exciting and important fixtures lined up. They begin their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign against Kuwait in Kuwait City on Thursday (November 16). This competition also serves as the qualifier for the 2027 Asian Cup.
India have been grouped with Kuwait, Qatar and Afghanistan. After facing Kuwait, they will face Qatar in Bhubaneswar on November 21. Considering that two teams from the group will make it to the next round, Igor Stimac’s boys have a fair chance.
India’s best World Cup qualifying performance came way back in 2001 when they finished just a point behind UAE in the group and narrowly failed to advance to the next round. They had beaten UAE 1-0 in Bengaluru, which remains one of India’s biggest victories in the competition.
Jules Alberto Dias scored the goal against UAE at Kanteerava Stadium. RevSportz caught up with Jules, who lives in England these days, to discuss Indian football. The following are excerpts.
Snehasis: First, tell us about that night at Kanteerava. The 71st minute of the match and that goal from you, how was the atmosphere and your feelings?
Jules: The stadium was filled with excitement and hope. UAE had played the World Cup previously and for India to play against them was huge. As players, we wanted to do our best and get a positive result. We were nervous but had belief in ourselves.
Snehasis: Is there any major difference that you notice in Indian football from your playing days and now?
Jules: Oh yes! Football has progressed by leaps and bounds. There are so many analyses done on physical, tactical, technical, and mental conditions and diet. Players are more aware of their opponents and how to outplay teams. The current Indian team is so much better and capable of playing at a much higher level.
Snehasis: How do you see India doing in this competition? Can they progress? They have had some success of late.
Jules: My wish is to see India play in the World Cup in my lifetime. It is a tough group, to be honest. But this Indian team is capable. They have proved it against Qatar before. I understand it’s not easy, but not impossible. India have defeated Kuwait and Afghanistan before. So as a supporter, I expect them to do great.
Snehasis: Goal scoring has been an issue for us in recent matches. Sunil Chhetri is still leading from the front. How do you rate him?
Jules: It would be silly of me to rate Sunil Chhetri. He’s a legend in his own right and an outstanding servant of Indian football. Whatever adjectives or compliments I use about him will not do justice. His achievements are inspiring and worthy of all the accolades.
Snehasis: Why are we not finding able strikers despite the Indian Super League and all?
Jules: Well, I am no expert in telling why it’s not happening in India, as I’ve not been there watching the system. There are a lot of training centres and club academies. I’m sure there are some talents coming through the system. Developing quality players takes time.
Snehasis: You were a midfielder and this Indian team has some young talents like Sahal Abdul Samad. How do you see him?
Jules: Sahal is a fantastic talent with huge potential. He will be a great player and he is already proving his abilities. I have watched him a few times and loved his style of creative play. Here’s wishing him the best to continue playing at his best.
Snehasis: There will be pressure as fans will expect big things. What’s your suggestion for dealing with pressure before big matches like these?
Jules: Expectations of fans and pressure will be there. The team is carrying hopes of a billion hearts. The current players are more than capable of playing and handling pressure. They actually thrive on it and I expect the team to perform outstandingly. I hope the whole country will back them on this journey! Good luck India!
India vs Kuwait facts
It’s 2-all: This will be the sixth meeting of these two teams. They have won two games each, while one was drawn.
India ahead on ranking: Currently, India are the 102-ranked team, while Kuwait are ranked 136th in the world.
Last meeting fillip: In the last encounter between the teams, in the final of the SAFF Championships, India won on penalties.
Fitness concerns for Stimac: India’s coach Igor Stimac has some concerns. Anwar Ali, Jeakson Singh and Aashique Kuruniyan are out with injuries.