The All India Football Federation is awaiting official clarification from the Asian Football Confederation regarding the eligibility of Indian Super League clubs for continental competitions if the ongoing season features fewer than the required number of matches. Sources indicate that discussions are ongoing, with the AFC’s response expected shortly, as the decision could significantly impact Indian clubs’ participation in the AFC Champions League Two.
Currently, India has two allocated slots in the AFC Champions League Two, with one direct group-stage berth reserved for the ISL Shield winners and another playoff opportunity designated for the Super Cup champions. However, eligibility rules require clubs to play a minimum of 24 matches across league and domestic competitions in a single season. With the ISL likely to be shortened, concerns have emerged over whether clubs can meet this threshold.
FC Goa, the reigning Super Cup winners, could be at risk of losing their playoff slot if they fail to complete the mandatory number of fixtures. Representatives from ISL clubs and an AIFF-appointed committee recently held discussions following the federation’s proposal for a revised league structure. While the clubs have requested additional time to review the format, the AIFF has indicated that the league will proceed this season regardless of the AFC’s final decision, even if continental qualification is not granted.
If the season goes ahead under the proposed framework, matches may be held at two or three centralized venues instead of the traditional home-and-away format. The AIFF has also proposed taking ownership and operational control of the ISL for the next 20 seasons under its new constitution, with plans to introduce promotion and relegation from the upcoming season.
The uncertainty surrounding the 2025–26 ISL season stems from the expiration of the Master Rights Agreement between the AIFF and Football Sports Development Limited, which led to a pause in league operations and required Supreme Court intervention. Despite a tender being issued for commercial rights under court supervision, no bids were received, adding to the complexity of the situation.
