BENGALURU: The Igor Stimac-trained Indian football squad is on a high after it passed the Pakistan test with flying colours in their SAFF Championship opener here.
On Friday, the players looked relaxed and upbeat as they went through some light training sessions at the city-based South United FC’s training ground.
Artificial turf, as Stimac said ahead of the start of the tournament, is not the ideal place for any rigorous training session and it helps that India are just another good match away from the semifinals on July 1.
A win against Nepal, ranked 174, on Saturday night will confirm the hosts’ progress and they can afford to take it easy in what would be a much tougher battle against Kuwait in the final group game next Wednesday.
The mood in the camp was reflected by flamboyant medio Sahal Abdul Samad as he breezed through the few questions posed by reporters on the eve of the match.
“We have already played against them (Nepal) and we also had a video session (as part of our preparation). They are a good side. They fight and they are fearless.
But we are ready for them,” said Sahal.
The Kerala Blasters player said the favourites tag was not a big factor.
“There is no pressure at all. Because we have a good bunch of players who are experienced. Plus, there is a good bunch of players coming up. The most difficult part is to defend the trophy,” he said.
On playing alongside Sunil Chhetri, whose hat-trick against Pakistan took his goal tally to 90, Sahal said it has been a big learning curve.
“I learnt many things from him, especially professionalism. He is the best example I can have.”
About the impact Stimac has made in Indian football, Sahal said: “The coach’s mantra is progressive football.”
(AI image)
Acid test for Pakistan
Pakistan face the challenge of staying afloat as they take on Kuwait in the day’s first match. Pakistan will have to avoid defeat if they are to keep their semifinal hopes alive.
