TRIVANDRUM: A brick in the solid wall of the Indian defence line, Central Defender Arnab Mondal touted India’s clash against Nepal on December 27, 2015 at the Trivandrum International Stadium in Kerala as a “test of credentials for the Indian squad.”
Speaking with journalists, Arnab explained the gravity of the fixture. “Nepal are a tough Team and we will have to be on our toes throughout the match if we are to get a positive result.”
“They (Nepal) are very hard to break down, their forwards are speedy and tricky to handle. We have to remain switched-on at all time.”
India have garnered only one win in the last three fixtures against Nepal and have drawn the other two. “Although it seems to be tougher fixture than Sri Lanka, we will play our game and will play for three points.”
“You don’t need motivation to play for India. It is already an honor to represent the Nation and when a Player plays in a particular match, he does not play to lose,” he added.
The Indian National Team, gearing for their clash against Nepal had a recovery session at the renowned Kovalam Beach in Kerala earlier in the morning. “The “change of environment helps the Players to relax,” Mondal opined.
“The change in environment has been beneficial for us as swimming helps a lot in recovery. All credit goes to the Coach for it.”
Reflecting on India’s 2-0 win against Sri Lanka in the opening fixture of the SAFF Suzuki Cup 2015, Arnab said: “The opening fixture of every Tournament is difficult and given that Sri Lanka played with men behind the ball, it became all the more difficult for us.”
It was two Robin Singh goals in the 51st and the 74th minute which led India to their first win of the Tournament. And Arnab wasn’t a miser to lavish praise on Robin.
“Robin (Singh) is a brilliant Striker and knows how to shield the ball. The best part stays that the Coach is working on getting able replacements in every position.”
Arnab Mondal, who was at times dragged into the waves by Pronay (Halder), Narayan (Das) and Pritam (Kotal) laughed it off when mentioned whether he feared of the deep waters.
“Life is synonymous with challenges. Waters will be deep but we are there to ride and swim out of the deep. We are Constantine’s squad. We are fearless,” he said even as Halder helped dust the sand behind his back.
The kick-off against Nepal on Sunday (December 27) is at 6.30pm and will be telecast live on Star Sports.
By Joseph Solomon,
AIFF Media Team
