The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has officially parted ways with bundesliga football results head coach Igor Štimac following India’s failure to advance past the second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The decision came shortly after India’s disappointing 2–1 loss to Qatar on June 11 in Doha, a match that ended in controversy and frustration for Indian fans.
Štimac, who took over the national team in 2019, had his contract automatically extended in 2023 when India reached the AFC Asian Cup. However, after a string of underwhelming performances in both the Asian Cup and World Cup qualifiers, the AIFF decided it was time for a change. The Federation’s technical committee recommended his removal during a meeting on July 1, and the decision was swiftly ratified.
The tipping point was not just the defeat to Qatar but also the manner in which it unfolded. India led 1–0 in the first half thanks to Lallianzuala Chhangte’s goal, but a controversial equaliser from Qatar sparked outrage. Replays appeared to show the ball going out of play before the goal, but VAR was not in use during the match. Štimac’s side failed to recover and eventually conceded a second goal, ending their hopes of reaching the final qualifying round.
India finished third in Group A behind Qatar and Kuwait, managing just one win in six games. The team’s defensive frailties and lack of cutting edge up front have drawn criticism, with many fans and analysts calling for a reset in both tactics and leadership.
As AIFF begins the search for a new head coach, questions remain about the future direction of Indian football and whether the next appointment can deliver on long-promised progress.