Igor Stimac demands more focus from his players as the Indian football team gears up for the Vietnam clash

The Indian team had an average outing against Singapore in their first match of the Hung Thinh tournament in Vietnam as they could only share the spoils with their opponents in a 1-1 draw. Now the Blue Tigers will face a high ranked Vietnam who are a much more solid and cohesive unit than Singapore. Therefore ahead of the game, head coach Igor Stimac hinted at change in strategy as his team prepares themselves to play the hosts.

The Croatian tactician pointed out how his team needs to be quick in transition and should be more focused as it is going to be difficult for them. “It will be a very different game against a much stronger opponent, so our approach will also change accordingly,” Stimac said on the eve of the match. “We need to be more focused, especially on vertical football and quick transition.”

India conceded a very unlucky goal against Singapore from a setpiece, something they need to avoid here aswell. Hence Stimac warns his players to be focused in defense and they will look to close down Vietnamese forwards in the final third. Handing any kind of space to them in the final third can raise serious problems for the Blue Tigers. “At the same time, we must maintain focus on our defence as well. They pose a real threat from long-range shots, and from their crosses, and we need to be able to deal with that,”he added.

The former Croatian national team defender shared how he saw the footage of Vietnam’s game against Singapore and his immediate feedback was that they are a very disciplined side and they won’t give India free chances to score goals. He also highlighted a longer time for recovery that the hosts had and also the players are into their domestic season so they are physically ready for this clash in comparison to Indian footballers.

“I’ve watched their first match against Singapore and they (Vietnam) are a very disciplined side,” said Igor Stimac. “They have also had enough time after the first game for recovery, while we need to see how many of our boys will be available and fit to play.”

It will be a tough test for the Indian team to put up a fight against Vietnam at their den. Although the hosts are overwhelmingly favourites ahead of the start of the match, the Blue Tigers will look to play some positive football and execute their plans well.