AIFF extend Igor Stimac's contract for two years

This was Igor Stimac's second contract renewal after initially joining in 2019.

In the summer of 2019, Igor Stimac took over as the head coach of the Indian national football team following a disappointing AFC Asian Cup campaign, where India failed to advance to the knockout stages. Since Stimac's appointment, there has been a noticeable improvement in the team's playing style, and the results have also been favorable for the All India Football Federation.

AIFF Secretary General Shaji Prabhakaran shared the announcement that Igor Stimac's contract has been extended for two more years till June 2026. If able to qualify for Round 3 World Cup qualifiers, another two years will be added to the same.

Under Stimac's leadership, India had a successful run in the third round of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, which took place in Kolkata last year. The team won all three games against Hong Kong, Afghanistan, and Cambodia, securing qualification for the 2023 AFC Asian Cup scheduled for early next year.

In recent times, the team's performance has earned praise. India emerged victorious in the Tri-nation tournament held in Imphal, as well as the Intercontinental Cup in Bhubaneswar. They also clinched the SAFF Championship title in Bengaluru earlier this year.

During the recent International break, India put up a strong fight against Iraq, a higher-ranked opponent. However, the match ended in a 2-2 draw after regular time, with India ultimately losing in a penalty shootout.

Looking ahead, Igor Stimac's first challenge after signing a new contract will be to lead the team in the Merdeka Cup, which is scheduled to take place during the upcoming international break in Malaysia.