Igor Stimac wants India to play bold football against Oman and UAE

His squad, along with the team’s young coach Igor Stumak, wants his players to play fearless football when the team faces the more radical Oman and the United Arab Emirates in international friendship next week. India play Oman and UAE in Dubai on 25 and 29 March respectively – their first match after more than a year due to the COVID-19 epidemic – preparing for the joint qualification round matches for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2023 Asians. Cups as part of. Stimac told AIFF TV, “We need to get on the pitch without any fear, we need to try to make our changes properly.

“As part of our football philosophy, we don’t look for easy opponents. We can only improve by playing against better sides. Shortly afterwards we came to know (that the World Cup qualifiers were postponed until June). , We were able to confirm two friends. Against Oman and the UAE. “

Although India are already out for a 2022 World Cup berth, they still have three matches – Qatar (at home) and Afghanistan (at home) and Bangladesh (away). All three matches will be played in June.

Stimac said the selection of the 27-member team was based on several criteria, including the Indian Super League form, past performance for the national team and overall experience.

“A bunch of different factors (went into deciding squad). Most of the players made it on merit. But there are some who have proven themselves on the international stage. Some poor performances should not erase them. Squad, ”the Croatian said.

He portrayed a bright future for Indian football.

“It’s a long process, and we’re preparing to play against the best and win,” he said.

“We are trying to build on the under-17s and develop their knowledge. The promotion of football has increased leaps and bounds in India. Soon, football will act as a number one sport here.”

While the Blue Tigers are set to make their return to international football after the epidemic, they will be without their captain and talisman striker Sunil Chhetri, who himself has tested positive for COVID-19.

Stamack praised Chhetri, saying that his presence inspires the youngsters as many players of his age cannot continue to perform at such a high level.

Promoted

“When you see Sunil this season, you can see that he has improved, even though Bengaluru FC hasn’t played. His personal numbers show that,” said Stamack.

“It is important for young people to develop that knowledge when they are with him. I hope he remains motivated, because there is still room to improve, and there is much left to do.”