Former India captain blasts AIFF's ASEAN Cup withdrawal call to play Brazil
India are scheduled to play five-time world champions Brazil in Kolkata on October 3. The AIFF chose the friendly over the FIFA ASEAN Cup after the two commitments created a scheduling clash.
Former Indian football captain Bhaichung Bhutia has criticized the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for withdrawing from the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup to play a friendly match against Brazil. Bhutia questioned the reported cost of Rs 50-70 crore for the match, stating that it is difficult to justify while Indian clubs are facing financial problems.
The AIFF chose the friendly over the FIFA ASEAN Cup due to scheduling conflicts. Bhutia expressed his support for Brazil visiting India, but disagreed with the high cost of a friendly match at this time. He also criticized AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey for misguiding the government and people involved in Indian football. Bhutia highlighted that Indian club football is currently dealing with financial and administrative issues, including club shut downs and struggles with payment.
The ASEAN Cup presents an opportunity for India to play competitive matches against regional teams like Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
