India started their Tri Nation tournament campaign with a 1-0 win over Myanmar and now they are looking to continue that momentum against Kyrgyz Republic in the second clash. They may put up a tougher challenge against Igor Stimac’s men in consideration to the first game.
But then again, Kyrgyz Republic could only manage a 1-1 draw against Myanmar recently and there’s an opportunity for the Blue Tigers to win this match against an opponent who are 12 spot above India in the FIFA World rankings.
Mumbai City FC’s star from the recently concluded season Lallianzuala Chhangte is pretty confident and he feels that the team is mentally and physically prepared to fight it out against Kyrgyz Republic.
Chhangte, who became the Hero of the League for his exceptional performances for the Islanders will be looking to replicate that form in national colours. He understands that Kyrgyz Republic is a higher ranked team than India but he feels that the team is very motivated to do well and win.
“Kyrgyz Republic are a very good team. We have had good matches against them in the past. They (94) are of course higher ranked than us (106). But we are prepared to do our best. The boys are in great shape, both physically and mentally, and I hope that we have a great match,” he said in an interview with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) website.
Chhangte also started against Myanmar in the first game and was very overwhelmed with the support and love shown by the Manipuri people at the Khuman Lampak stadium. He highlighted how much the people here love their sport made the Indian team feel overwhelmed with their exceptional welcoming gesture.
“It really felt like a special moment in the first match. Not a single empty seat was seen, the Chief Minister turned up and said some inspiring words. Overall, we could really feel how Manipur made us all feel at home,” he said. “I hope we get the same number of fans or even more in the match against Kyrgyz Republic,” Chhangte added.
The young winger was exceptional for India down the flanks as he delivered some great cross into the box against Myanmar. Chhangte is in great form and Stimac will hope that he now starts scoring goals and providing assists from wider areas.
