India ought to have scored extra targets to finish its dominance, felt head coach Igor Stimac as his aspect notched its sixth consecutive win at house outclassing a modest Mongolia 2-0 within the first spherical of the Intercontinental Cup. Stimac mentioned he was “overall happy” for his crew’s efficiency and picked up some excellent particular person performances that obtained the match in India’s favour.
“We are overall happy with our performance. We did everything we planned for the match – a clean sheet and a win. The boys enjoyed their time on the pitch, passing the ball, creating chances, and scoring goals. I feel a bit sorry that there were not many goals compared to the chances we created,” Stimac mentioned after the win.
India, at the moment ranked 101 within the FIFA rankings, was an amazing favorite within the match however Mongolia, which ranked 183 on the planet, impressed with a pleasant defensive organisation. “The Mongolian team defended well. They were good in the middle press but couldn’t trouble us with the high press as our midfielders like Apuia and Anirudh Thapa played their roles really well,” Stimac mentioned.
Stimac additionally congratulated the gifted winger Lallianzuala Chhangte, who was named the participant of the match, for his exceptional professionalism. “He works so hard on a daily basis. You should make a movie about him as he is an inspiration for future generations, who are coming up and knocking on the door of the senior team. They should learn from him what it takes to be a professional footballer,” Stimac mentioned.
The former Croatian World Cupper was additionally appreciative of the right-back Nikhil Poojary, who returned to the Indian crew after nearly 4 years. “I have seen Nikhil through the ISL season and find him maturing as a full back with wonderful speed and tackling abilities. He needs to learn a bit about covering spaces with the centre backs but he has a lot of things in him to make a good fullback,” he mentioned.
Another participant who delighted Stimac together with his efficiency was Sahal Abdul Samad. The participant didn’t have a great ISL season however he confirmed his class carrying the nationwide colors. “With how we analysed our opponents Mongolia, we wanted a player like Sahal to start today as he is capable of finding gaps, turning, creating chances, and scoring goals. I am so happy for him,” the top coach mentioned about Sahal who discovered the lead inside two minutes of the beginning.