Indian coach Igor Stimac wary of Hong Kong’s attacking threat as they head into the decider in the Asian Cup qualifiers

Ahead of the all-important decider against Hong Kong in the Asian Cup qualifiers, Indian head coach Igor Stimac says they are not going too much into calculation as they aim to win the match and qualify as group toppers. The Blue Tigers have secured two wins and have six points in their kitty and have almost secured qualification but they would want to end this on a high and finish as group winners rather than scrape through.

Hong Kong are heading into the game as group leaders courtesy of goal difference. But everything is at stake as both teams take the floor on the final matchday in the Asian Cup qualifiers. Therefore Stimac is wary of the attacking threat that they bring to the table and are ready to face them with the determination to seal it off with a win. “They are a disciplined side with enough quality to defend and attack. But, we studied their strengths and weaknesses and know what we need to do to win this game. This game is of the same importance as the previous two. There is less pressure obviously…and we will do everything to win this game,” Stimac stated at the pre match press conference.

The Croatian tactician then touched upon how having multiple options in one position is a blessing rather than a headache as recovery of players is a big factor going into the game. He hinted at some changes as he kept on putting emphasis on fresh legs for important matches. “The recovery process doesn’t change. It depends on the individual fitness of each player and how much recovery time they need until the next game comes. We need fresh legs. This is my main worry and I love this worry. I love this kind of headache. Feeling sorry for leaving anyone out because they all performed so well. But we also need to be reasonable and if the screening shows any player is in danger of getting an injury then we need to reconsider,” the head coach explained.

Lastly Stimac praise the All Indian Football Federation (AIFF) for their constant support and work behind the scenes. He lauded the U-17 program and the players that have come through the system and have made it to the national team. He feels that working on projects like these will help the national team in future aswell.

“The projects which have grown so many players and contributed to the future of Indian football like Akash Mishra, Asish Rai, Roshan, Vikram Pratap Singh and many more are now senior team players. It (the system) can be better, but we cannot say it’s not good enough,” he concluded.