Kathmandu: The Indian U-16 team face an uphill task when they take on Iraq in the 2018 qualifiers of the AFC U-16 Championship at the Halchowk Stadium on Sunday. The Indian team earlier drew 2-2 against Nepal and coach Bibiano Fernandes believes that the boys have recovered well.
“Yes, obviously boys were feeling a bit down following the draw against Nepal. We were really disappointed but now we have shifted our focus to tomorrow’s match against Iraq”, said coach Bibiano, according to the official website of the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
He further added, “There has been a positive vibe amongst the boys and they’re determined to take the fight to Iraq tomorrow. Although we were left aghast last night, now, we are feeling the fire under our belly to impose a tough challenge to them.”
Iraq are leading the Group D with six points from two matches. Meanwhile, India have four points from two games and coach Bibiano considers the Iraq match to be a crucial one, in order to qualify.
“We know the match is going to be extremely crucial, not only for us but also for them. We have to keep an eye on the other groups as the calculations will prove to be pivotal in our quest to qualify for the AFC U-16 Championship 2018,” he said talking about India’s chances.
However, the good news for the Indian team is that there are no injury fears and the coach has all the options available before the all-important clash.
“The boys are in great shape and everyone is ready to give it a shot against the defending champions,” he said.
He also mentioned that concentration will be the key for his young colts to win the match. “We have to be at the top of our game for 90 minutes and it might be the key to get a positive result. We can’t afford to lose our concentration any time, otherwise, we might have to leave Nepal empty handed,” said the former Indian International.
Earlier, Harpreet Singh came off the bench and scored a brace in the space of three minutes to help India draw against Nepal in their second match.