SAFF Cup: 3 Reasons Why India Lost The Final To Maldives

#2 Complacency in preparation

Constantine's team selection raises questions

The team selection, as well as the tactics, point to the fact that the tournament was not taken seriously by the AIFF. Constantine was always vocal about the U-23's not getting enough game time in the Indian Super League and a camp of 45 days was arranged to solve the matter.

The fact that there was no Afghanistan in the Cup as they have moved to Central Asian Football Association should have given confidence to the Indians, but their lack of seriousness in preparation was telling in the end.

As India is approaching the Asia Cup, Constantine needs to put serious thought on team selection as reputation is on stake given that India was the only team in the SAFF Cup which has qualified for the Asia Cup.