Invitational tournaments are vestige of a begone era ... when we were in the socialist side of the cold war division. These tournaments were mostly political (to show solidarity with each other). Nehru Cup was one of those.These tourneys helped because the continental structure was not developed and not many friendlies used to take place, at least in the lower ranks in Asia. As the political necessities evaporated, they also stopped happening, barring a few.
Today, it can be said that these tounaments have served their purpose and are rightly retired. With structured international calenders with WCQs, Continental Cup matches, they are not a necessity anymore. If we forcefully try to recreate that era, it will clash with todays calender and not have the advantage of FIFA matchday windows. We will keep on getting 'unfficial' or 'developmental' teams. The basic purpose of climbing up the ranking table will be defeated.
@Deb_Ban different factors at play now. Sponsorship, finance, income from such tournaments for marketing partner.... You'll see that such tournaments are again popping up around the world. Post-season matches are a prime example....
IMG-R people in the AIFF will not allow Friendlies before and during the long ISL. They are even hostile to SAFF Cup. On the other hand, AIFF takes money from National team sponsors with a commitment that "x" number of matches atleast will be played. Thats why such Champions cup or Nehru Cup comes into the picture that at one go, some international matches are played for the NT without disturbing the schedule of ISL. 3 seasons have passed - when was the last time India National team played on FIFA match dates when ISL was going on ??
According to this report, Baichung Bhutia is set to resign from his post of AIFF technical advisor...he will probably send his resignation to AIFF President Praful Patel today or tomorrow.. It says that he is disturbed by the way his image is being tainted and the way he is being projected as a villain, particularly with some of his decisions regarding the I-League and ISL...that is why he has decided to step down
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Today, it can be said that these tounaments have served their purpose and are rightly retired. With structured international calenders with WCQs, Continental Cup matches, they are not a necessity anymore. If we forcefully try to recreate that era, it will clash with todays calender and not have the advantage of FIFA matchday windows. We will keep on getting 'unfficial' or 'developmental' teams. The basic purpose of climbing up the ranking table will be defeated.
Playing friendlies are anytime better.
On the other hand, AIFF takes money from National team sponsors with a commitment that "x" number of matches atleast will be played.
Thats why such Champions cup or Nehru Cup comes into the picture that at one go, some international matches are played for the NT without disturbing the schedule of ISL.
3 seasons have passed - when was the last time India National team played on FIFA match dates when ISL was going on ??
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/now-foreigners-in-youth-and-kids-football-leagues/articleshow/59572100.cms
CFA’s famed coach Harjinder ‘quits’
http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/chandigarh/cfa-s-famed-coach-harjinder-quits/435875.html
According to this report, Baichung Bhutia is set to resign from his post of AIFF technical advisor...he will probably send his resignation to AIFF President Praful Patel today or tomorrow.. It says that he is disturbed by the way his image is being tainted and the way he is being projected as a villain, particularly with some of his decisions regarding the I-League and ISL...that is why he has decided to step down