Rohan Chowdhury in Hangzhou
Despite the nightmarish nature of their journey to China for the Asian Games, and the lack of any meaningful preparation as a group, India’s football team achieved their primary goal of qualifying for the last 16 with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Myanmar. They will now face Saudi Arabia, one of the pre-tournament favourites, on Thursday.
“We have done our job under the most difficult circumstances I have witnessed in my career, so let’s now go and enjoy it,” said Igor Stimac, the coach, after the game. “Let’s make it difficult for Saudi Arabia, and try to win it.”
India had started their campaign in disastrous circumstances, losing 5-1 to China, but victory over Bangladesh and this draw were enough to seal second spot in the group.
“Well, obviously, the first one is to qualify to the next round,” said Stimac, when asked by RevSportz what positives he would take from the three matches in five days. “And the biggest positive is that I’ve found couple of boys here in this squad who’ll serve us well in the future.”
He wouldn’t be drawn on the identity of those players, however. “I don’t want to tell you,” he said. “I don’t want them to start flying and lose focus, but you’ll see them soon in the senior team.”
Sandesh Jhingan, one of the senior players in the squad and central to another strong defensive display, pronounced himself pleased after the first mission, qualification, was accomplished.
“Despite all the circumstances and opinions, being here myself, I am proud of this team for making it round of 16,” he said. “Now, rest, recover and we prepare for another fight on 28th.”