Kathmandu: India will face Philippines on Sunday in the Group B match of the AFC Challenge Cup. India National Football team head Coach Savio Medeira knows that the Sunday’s encounter against Philippines in the Group B, of the AFC Challenge Cup won’t be an easy task. As the ‘Azkals’ have also lost their first match against DPR Korea and would be seeking redemption.
Savio also stays aware of the fact that he and the Team is carrying the hopes of the entire nation. And any slip-up would see their Challenge Cup campaign crashing down.
“At times you don’t get the results which you strive for. But that won’t deter us to be committed for our future success. We will keep trying and give our 100 percent to get the result we all are striving for,” Savio quipped with confidence on his team.
“We had a spirited performance against Tajikistan. But we squandered some good chances to score in the first half. Hope things will improve in our next match,” added the Coach.
“We need to believe in ourselves and keep on playing good football, the result will come,” continued Savio.
Star striker and the Captain of the side Sunil Chhetri, on the sidelines of the training session remained optimistic of staging a comeback and said, “It's going to be another tough match but we are ready and we can pull off a great result on Sunday. We all will stay focused and do whatever is expected of us.”
Though some changes in the playing XI looks imminent. Changes in the midfield and upfront would be there on the Savio mind. As the midfield looked rusty in the match against Persians and also the strikers missed too many chances.
Meanwhile, Philippines who stay few notches below India in the FIFA ranking would be vary of Indian challenge. They also would be looking at the past record where they never managed to beat India.
However, Philippines have galaxy of stars to boost off, their first goalkeeper plays for top English side Fulham. Also many of the players who are of English-Philippino origin play in Europe.
The kick-off is slated for 5 pm (4:45 pm IST). Match would be played at Dashrath Stadium Kathmandu, Nepal on March 11, 2012.
By Indian Sports News
