Jammu, March 27 -- The Indian men's national football team suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Afghanistan in their latest 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match, marking one of their lowest points yet. While captain Sunil Chhetri's perseverance remains inspirational at age 37, the team's overall performance highlighted ongoing struggles that continue to hold them back on the international stage.

India had high hopes coming into the crucial qualifier played on home soil in Guwahati. However, the team looked disjointed and lacked cohesion, struggling to create clear chances outside of Chhetri's penalty. Defensive lapses allowed Afghanistan to score two late goals and complete the comeback victory. The result saw India pick up just on...