Football

Indian coach Igor Stimac wary of Hong Kong’s attacking threat as they head into the decider in the Asian Cup qualifiers

 

Ahead of the all-important decider against Hong Kong in the Asian Cup qualifiers, Indian head coach Igor Stimac says they are not going too much into calculation as they aim to win the match and qualify as group toppers. The Blue Tigers have secured two wins and have six points in their kitty and have almost secured qualification but they would want to end this on a high and finish as group winners rather than scrape through.

Hong Kong are heading into the game as group leaders courtesy of goal difference. But everything is at stake as both teams take the floor on the final matchday in the Asian Cup qualifiers. Therefore Stimac is wary of the attacking threat that they bring to the table and are ready to face them with the determination to seal it off with a win. “They are a disciplined side with enough quality to defend and attack. But, we studied their strengths and weaknesses and know what we need to do to win this game. This game is of the same importance as the previous two. There is less pressure obviously…and we will do everything to win this game,” Stimac stated at the pre match press conference.

The Croatian tactician then touched upon how having multiple options in one position is a blessing rather than a headache as recovery of players is a big factor going into the game. He hinted at some changes as he kept on putting emphasis on fresh legs for important matches. “The recovery process doesn’t change. It depends on the individual fitness of each player and how much recovery time they need until the next game comes. We need fresh legs. This is my main worry and I love this worry. I love this kind of headache. Feeling sorry for leaving anyone out because they all performed so well. But we also need to be reasonable and if the screening shows any player is in danger of getting an injury then we need to reconsider,” the head coach explained.

Lastly Stimac praise the All Indian Football Federation (AIFF) for their constant support and work behind the scenes. He lauded the U-17 program and the players that have come through the system and have made it to the national team. He feels that working on projects like these will help the national team in future aswell.

“The projects which have grown so many players and contributed to the future of Indian football like Akash Mishra, Asish Rai, Roshan, Vikram Pratap Singh and many more are now senior team players. It (the system) can be better, but we cannot say it’s not good enough,” he concluded.

 

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Pro Kabaddi League 2024: Gujarat Giants vs Dabang Delhi K.C. – Match Preview

Gujarat Giants will take the mat against Dabang Delhi K.C. in the 11th season of… Read More

December 23, 2024

LeBron James opens up on new All-Star Game format, says something had to change

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has opened up on new All-Star Game format. James,… Read More

December 20, 2024

Sunil Chhetri reveals how leadership onus helped him in his career

India’s football icon Sunil Chhetri has had a glorious career as he has ticked the… Read More

December 20, 2024

East Bengal FC midfielder Madih Talal ruled out for rest of the season due to knee injury

East Bengal FC midfielder Madih Talal has been ruled out of the rest of the… Read More

December 20, 2024

Christopher Clarey sheds lights on Novak Djokovic-Andy Murray alliance, says Serb has always tapped into smart, high-level tennis players

Renowned Tennis journalist Christopher Clarey has shed light on Novak Djokovic appointing Andy Murray as… Read More

December 20, 2024

Manchester United’s Ruben Amorim has no regrets after dropping Marcus Rashford

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has admitted he has no regrets after dropping Marcus… Read More

December 20, 2024