It’s important to have trust and belief from the coach: India midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad

Indian midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad feels it is important to have trust and belief from the coach, Igor Stimac. The Blue Tigers have made a solid start to the ongoing SAFF Championships. The hosts won the opening match against arch-rivals Pakistan by 4-0 as they dominated the contest throughout the game.

Furthermore, India registered a 2-0 win against Nepal after Indian skipper Sunil Chhetri and Naorem Mahesh Singh scored. Chhetri had also scored a hat-trick against Pakistan in the opening game.

However, India will face a tough challenge as they will take on in-form Kuwait in their final group match. India’s main focus is on defending the SAFF Championship, in Bengaluru and they will be looking to bring their best to the pitch on Tuesday against Kuwait.

Meanwhile, Sahal Abdul Samad has played a key role in the team’s success in the midfield, especially in the absence of Brandon Fernandes.

“It’s important to have trust and belief from the coach, and I’m trying my best and also enjoying the moment,” Samad said in an interaction with the media.

Samad admitted it won’t be easy to defend their title but also revealed they have no pressure on them as they have the experience on their side.

He said, “The most difficult part is to defend the trophy, but there is no pressure at all because we have a good bunch of players, and everyone has the experience. Young talents are coming up.”

In the recent past, the Indian team has focused more on keeping the ball with short passes. India had possession of 64% against Nepal and 70% against Pakistan in the ongoing tournament.

Regarding the current style of play, Samad stated, “You all know we are trying the possession game, trying to hold the ball as much as we can from the wing and the centre and make it a chance to score goals. We have fantastic players who score goals for us.”

The 26-year-old added that the coach Igor Stimac wants them to play attacking football.

“The coach needs progressive football as much as possible, to move forward and try to score goals,” stated Samad.

India will play Kuwait on Tuesday at the Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru.