Indian team still have a lot to prove, says coach Igor Stimac

Indian football team’s head coach Igor Stimac was pleased with his boys' performance in their second international friendly against Nepal on Sunday. He, however, added that there were “many points to improve on”.

Goals from Farukh Choudhary and Sunil Chhetri set up the 2-1 win for India. Tej Tamang managed to reduce the margin for the hosts at the Dashrath Stadium in Kathmandu.

The first friendly ended in a 1-1 draw.

In the post-match press conference, Stimac said the Indian team fared much better in the second game.

“I think it was a good game of football that all the fans could enjoy. This second game was much better than the previous one. We need to congratulate the players on their attitude and their willingness to go and win the game. I especially need to appreciate my players because they were much more patient, waiting for the first goal, to open up the Nepali defense, and as you know, when that happens, everything is much easier.”

That feeling when you score your first goal in International football 😊🙌@choudharyfar8 👏👏👏#NEPIND ⚔️ #BackTheBlue 💙 #IndianFootball ⚽ #BlueTigers 🐯 pic.twitter.com/cgQFb1ZIsw

— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) September 5, 2021

A lot of unfinished work - Stimac

Igor Stimac said the Indian players have grown in confidence over the last two matches. He added that there is, however, a lot of unfinished work and the team had a lot to prove in the future.

“After we scored the first goal, we started rising with confidence and playing as we need to play. I think overall India were the better of the two sides over the two games and deservedly are going forward with a win. But I think India still has a lot to prove and many points to improve on.”

Igor Stimac also praised the fighting spirit shown by Nepal and said the team’s preparation has stood them in good stead.

“Nepal played well; they improved a lot. I can see how much it means to the team when it has two months of preparation.”