Transition to defend stays most significant: Koevermans

Kochi - India’s chief football coach Wim Koevermans said Wednesday’s international friendly here against Palestine will test his boys’ defensive skills.

The Dutch said the Palestine side look very powerful and competent.

“Palestine look a very competent side. Nine of their players who had done duty in the West Asia Cup in December 2012 are in the squad. We have watched them in videos and they are a powerful side. It will be an interesting match for sure,” said Koevermans on the eve of the match here Tuesday.

Koevermans said that challenge for his team will be to peak within two practice sessions.

“Don’t switch off during training. We were together for five weeks for the Nehru Cup. This time, you need to peak within two practice sessions. That’s the challenge of an international friendly,” he said.

“Teamwork is very important. Help each other. The transition to defend stays most significant. It’s not only about what you do with the ball but what you do when you don’t have it. Defending is helping each other,” he stressed.

Jamal Mahmoud Abed Mahmoud Pass, the Palestine Coach, said: “India are a capable side. We are happy to be in India,” he maintains. “It will be an interesting match.”