The Indian Football Team’s first training session in Kolkata was a blend of intense warmup drills, focused shooting and crossing exercises, and the lively banter of Sunil Chhetri, who will play his last international game against Kuwait. Local fans cheered for their heroes from East Bengal and Mohun Bagan as the Blue Tigers resumed their preparations for the must-win fixture against Kuwait.
Having started their preparatory camp in Bhubaneswar on May 11, the team shifted its base to Kolkata on Wednesday ahead of the crucial match.
Coach Igor Stimac, Sunil Chhetri, and the other players were welcomed by a swarm of reporters and a handful of enthusiastic supporters as they stepped off the bus and headed to the training ground. After a brief pep talk by Stimac, the Blue Tigers got into warmup mode. The head coach did not go easy on them, extending the warmup drills for the next 40 minutes despite the humid conditions. One would wonder if the players had to endure similar drills in Bhubaneswar and felt for the players. Yet, Sunil Chhetri and his teammates managed admirably, their determination evident as they prepared to secure the much-needed three points against Kuwait, a team they last defeated in November.
Chhetri, in his usual upbeat mood, kept the atmosphere light with his humour, bantering with teammates Chungnunga and Chhangte. However, he suddenly withdrew from the ground as the team began their shooting and crossing drills, causing a moment of alarm among the reporters. Given that the upcoming game against Kuwait is Chhetri’s last, speculation rose quickly. Relief washed over everyone when it was revealed that he was merely resting after the intense warmup.
Coach Stimac was equally engaged, meticulously observing every move. He paused the training whenever necessary to correct mistakes, ensuring precision in every action.
There was plenty of outside noise for the East Bengal and Mohun Bagan players during the training. Subhasish Bose, Vishal Kaith, Chungnunga, and Naorem were cheered on by the fans for every impressive shot or save. Some fans even urged the players for jerseys from outside the training ground. Though the players couldn’t fulfill their wish immediately, they promised to give them jerseys after the last training session. Despite not receiving jerseys, the fans were not disappointed, as the players took the time to take selfies with them before boarding the bus after the session wrapped up.
Also Read: A glimpse into the build-up ahead of Chhetri’s farewell match