5 things India can achieve from the World Cup qualifier against Iran

If anyone was asked to predict the result when Iran take on India on Thursday night, almost everyone would favour the home side. Iran are currently ranked 44 in the FIFA Rankings while India are way down in 160th place - 116 places away. 

To make matters worse, the Blue Tigers are without a number of key players, especially in attack. Three Indians have scored four goals so far in this round of World Cup qualifiers – two of those players are out with injuries. 

Although the absence of Sunil Chettri and Robin Singh will be felt, India can still achieve quite a few things in their match against Iran.

We take a look at 5 things India can achieve from the World Cup qualifier against Iran.

1. Chance to shine on a big stage

Although stalwarts like Chettri and Robin Singh are missing, India will be looking to give a good account of themselves against Iran

Any sport in India other than cricket has always struggled to capture people’s imaginations. The Indian football team has a wonderful chance to gain some recognition by putting up a good show against the best Asian team in the world – Iran.

Although this match will not have any bearing on the qualification standings, a good showing against the mighty Asian giants will definitely help the blue tigers to gain some respect and recognition from fans in India.

Any international match is a huge match no matter what the stakes are and a good showing in a world cup qualifier will help Constantine and his men to get some much needed confidence and will also help to improve the abysmal world ranking of 160.