New Delhi: The UEFA Champions League is considered to be the most prestigious club trophy title in football and last year it was won by Italian club AC Milan.
The competition attracts huge audience, not just in Europe, but also throughout the world and is only behind the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics when it comes to television ratings.
But now, Asia seems to be gearing up to give the European competition a run for its money.
In what could be a major boost for Indian football, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is keenly scrutinising Indian clubs for its revamped Asian Champions League next year.
The AFC will unveil a revamped Asian Champions League from 2009 and is keen on giving India a chance to not only qualify but make its presence felt, in the league, in a big way as well.
All India Football Federation Alberto Colaco said, "You cannot compare the figures in terms of money. But Asia has got the potential because economically we are also very advanced."
But there is a rider. Though, India has the potential, the AFC feels Indian clubs are yet to reach the standards shown by their Japanese and other Asian counterparts when it comes to infrastructure, marketing and professionalism and need to act fast to meet the entry criteria for qualification.
"Compared to the countries like Japan, they need money to improve," AFC Pro-League Committee Tokuaki Suzuki said.
"If Asian Championship can be a hit, then I think Asian Championship League will defeat all other leagues for sponsorship, or monetary affairs in a big way. Here is the market because India, China and Japan are the big markets," Mohun Bagan Secretary Anjan Mitra said.
The AFC Committee has visited 21 countries so far and has narrowed down to 15 countries for a second visit.
Clearly, time is running out for India as the AFC is expected to take a final decision on the matter after its meeting in May.
Comments
0 comment