Team India insulted in Kochi, head coach and players did not get entry into the stadium due to money dispute

Indian football is once again facing embarrassment. On March 26, 2026, such an incident came to light at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi, which has raised questions on the sports system of the country. Team India’s head coach Khalid Jamil and many players were stopped from entering the stadium.

This incident happened when the team had to hold a press conference before the AFC Asian Cup qualifier match. India has to play an important match against Hong Kong on March 31, but even before that this controversy has spoiled the atmosphere.

Security guards stopped, the team had to return

Players Ashiq Kuruniyan, Sahal Abdul Samad and Bijoy Varghese were also present along with the head coach. Everyone was stopped at the stadium gate itself. The security personnel clearly said that entry will not be allowed until the required payment is made. It is being told that the security of Rs 20 to 25 lakh was not deposited by the Kerala Football Association for the stadium rent. This is why this situation arose. Under compulsion, the entire team had to return without holding a press conference.

Press conference cancelled, resentment increased

Due to this incident the official press conference had to be cancelled. Due to this, there was resentment among the players and coaching staff. This kind of chaos before an international match has caused a lot of damage to the image of Indian football.

Such a dispute has happened before also

This is not the first time that such a case has come to light in Kochi. Earlier in February 2026 also, Kerala Blasters players were not given entry into the stadium due to a similar payment dispute.

AIFF gave assurance

However, AIFF has assured that the match against Hong Kong will be played as scheduled. It is expected that all necessary payments will be completed before the match. Such incidents which are continuously coming to light are damaging the reputation of Indian football. Now the question is whether the administration will be able to solve these problems in time or such disputes will continue in future also.