What is the historical performance of India in the AFC Asian Cup?

The AFC Asian Cup is an esteemed football tournament held in Asia, where nations from the continent compete fiercely for glory. India, with its rich football legacy, has always aspired to leave its mark on this prestigious competition. However, India’s journey in the tournament has witnessed a series of ups and downs. Let’s delve into India’s performance in the AFC Asian Cup in detail.

First appearance in 1964

India made its maiden appearance in the AFC Asian Cup in 1964, which took place in Israel. This marked a momentous occasion in the annals of Indian football. If you want to learn more about the evolution of the Indian football team, you will be redirected here. Under the guidance of coach Syed Abdul Rahim, the Indian team showcased their potential by reaching the semi-finals. During the group stages, India went head-to-head with formidable opponents like Iran, South Korea, and Israel. 
The Indian team exhibited exceptional performances, securing a victory against South Korea and a draw against Israel. These remarkable results paved the way for India’s qualification to the semi-finals. However, they encountered a formidable Soviet Union team in the semi-final clash. Despite their valiant efforts, India faced defeat and had to settle for competing in the match for third place.

Sixth place finish in 1984

India participated in the 1984 AFC Asian Cup, hosted in Singapore. This edition witnessed the convergence of ten highly competitive teams from across Asia. It was a golden opportunity for India to lock horns with the finest teams on the continent. Under the stewardship of coach Syed Nayeemuddin, the Indian team displayed great determination, yet they concluded the tournament in sixth place. 
During the group stages, India confronted formidable opponents such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. Despite showcasing commendable performances, India fell short of qualifying for the final stages of the competition. Nevertheless, their participation in the 1984 edition exemplified their unwavering aspiration to represent the nation at the highest level.

Group stage elimination in 2011

India had the honor of hosting the 2011 edition of the AFC Asian Cup, adding an extra layer of significance to the tournament. It presented a splendid opportunity for India to shine in front of their passionate fans and put on an awe-inspiring spectacle. 
Placed in Group C alongside Australia, South Korea, and Bahrain, India faced a daunting path due to the formidable nature of their opponents. Despite their arduous endeavors, India failed to secure a spot in the quarter-finals. Nevertheless, they showcased immense potential in certain matches, including a hard-fought goalless draw against Bahrain.

Group stage exit in 2019

India participated in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup held in the United Arab Emirates. Under the astute guidance of coach Stephen Constantine, the Indian team aspired to make a mark in this continental extravaganza. However, they found themselves pitted against tough adversaries in a group comprising the United Arab Emirates, Thailand, and Bahrain. The challenges ahead were formidable, and despite their unwavering efforts, India couldn’t progress to the quarter-finals. 
India commenced their campaign with a defeat against the United Arab Emirates, followed by another loss to Bahrain. However, in their final group-stage encounter against Thailand, India exhibited resilience and fought to secure a well-deserved 1-1 draw. Alas, the outcome wasn’t sufficient to propel India into the knockout stage of the tournament.