XtraTime Web Desk: The Indian national football team is likely to play its remaining matches of the 2022 World Cup Qualifiers in October and November. The Blue Tigers are likely to resume their 2022 qualifying campaign on October 08 against Qatar followed by away fixture against Bangladesh on October 13. Sunil Chhetri and his team will play their last group league tie against Afghanistan on November 17. These are all tentative dates though as AFC is awaiting official confirmation from FIFA.
India is virtually out of contention for qualifying to the next stage. The Blue Tigers have so far managed only 3 points from 5 matches in Group E. Even if they win the remaining three matches they will end up with 12 points which will not be sufficient as both Qatar (13 points) and Oman (12 points) find themselves at a comfortable position in the group.
A total of 12 teams – 8 group winners and 4 best runners up will qualify for the next stage.
India started the qualifiers on a positive note, holding Qatar to a goalless draw. But back to back draws against neighbours Bangladesh and Afghanistan pegged them back. The final nail on the coffin was hit when they lost to Oman at home.