“The boys need to think about life after Sunil” – Igor Stimac

India breezed past Cambodia in their opening AFC Asian Cup 2023 Qualifiers fixture by a 2-0 margin. The team that comprised many young guns like Akash Mishra, Liston Colaco, Naorem Roshan Singh, Suresh Singh Wangjam, and Anwar Ali fared well. Here is what coach Igor Stimac had to say at the post-match press conference.

Excerpts:

Thoughts on the game

The conditions were difficult. Mistakes happened because the brain could not function due to the weather conditions. Big thanks to the boys who maintained the momentum and kept going. Of course, there are many aspects we have to improve on. I asked for two things from the team – a clean sheet and goals. So I am happy that we scored two goals. However, we could have scored more.

Expectations from the team

The team is well equipped and balanced. We created five to six decent chances from where we should have converted. I expect our players to step up when the team needs them. I expect goals from Aashique, Udanta, Liston, Brandon, Manvir, Sahal. The young boys need to think about life after Sunil. It is high time. This was a good chance for them to prove as Sunil was subbed off earlier in the second half.

Thoughts on young players

I want to highlight Roshan, Suresh, Anwar and Akash’s performances. I am delighted. They are the future of Indian football. Speaking of Akash and Roshan, it is always pleasing to have fullbacks who are good with their feet. They are well adept in shooting, crossing and passing. They were our secret weapons alongside the other two. The boys are not afraid and are always willing to go the extra mile. These are the type of characters that will build the future of our team, and I am very proud of them.

Take on fans

I was excited to see how fans reacted in the last three days. Their support is a pillar of our success. And I realized once again how passionate the fans of Kolkata are. I want to share a big note of thanks to the entire football community in the city. Thank you for coming. I expect to see you all in the upcoming games in greater capacity. Keep supporting.

India will play their next Group-D fixture against Afghanistan at the VYBK Stadium, Kolkata, on 11th of June. The match will be telecasted live on Star Sports Network at 20:30 IST.

For Trial related updates: Latest trials updates in Mumbai Football

Also Read: Bengaluru FC appoints Simon Grayson as Head Coach

Follow us on FacebookTwitter, and Instagram for all the latest happenings in the world of Indian football

SSE BFC to conduct trials for U9 to U17 age group players

SSE BFC Soccer School will be conducting fresh trials this month for players aged below 17 to be part of their football program SSE BFC Soccer Schools is a football…

Share

India Khelo Football Season 3 Trials for Mumbai and Thane are here

India Khelo Football (IKF) is back with Season 3 of its widely acclaimed trials with an aim to cover more than 50 cities this time around. After the resounding success…

Share

Mastering the Art of Football Trials: Key Pre-Trial Factors to Keep in Mind

Football trials are a critical juncture for aspiring players to showcase their skills and secure a spot in a team. To maximize your chances of success, it’s essential to tailor your approach based on your playing position as well as keeping in mind a few pre-trial factors.

Share

Somaiya Sports Academy to conduct trials for MFA 2nd Division campaign

Somaiya Sports Academy is looking for passionate young football players for the Somaiya Sports Academy Football Team to compete in the MFA 2nd Division League 2023-2024. If selected, you will…

Share

BFC Soccer Schools – Mumbai to conduct trials for U14 & U16 Girls

The BFC Soccer Schools Elite team girls’ trials are coming up in search of talented players from the U14 to U16 (Born 2009 and after) age groups into the club’s…

Share

Opportunity to make the team: U.K.M. Kothrud FC conducts selection trials for girls team

Pune-based U.K.M. Kothrud FC has announced that they will be conducting selection trials for their girl’s team on 15th January 2023 The club welcomes all players to come and showcase…

Share

The Sunday Football League Season 4 is back

The Sunday Football League is back with its fourth season, and it’s shaping up to be the best one yet. With eight talented teams competing at the Kes Kandivali turf, there…

Share

BFC Soccer Schools Elite team trials in Feb

Bengaluru FC launched their Mumbai program last season with the Soccer Schools and Elite programs with its local partner Soccer Schools of Excellence (SSE).  Bengaluru Football Club is a professional club…

Share

India Khelo Football Season 2 Trials in Mumbai: A Chance to Kickstart Your Football Career

After conducting trials in 34 cities & villages across India, India Khelo Football is coming to Mumbai to hunt talent on 7th January. India Khelo Football kickstarted its season 2…

Share

Mumbai Customs to conduct trials for Elite League

Former champions Mumbai Customs will be holding open trials for the upcoming MFA Elite Corporate League (Elite Division) The 2019 MFA Elite Division champions Mumbai Customs are conducting open trials…

Share