Kowloon (Hong Kong), Jun 9 (PTI) The latest defeat in opposition to Thailand however, India head coach Manolo Márquez on Monday exuded confidence on the eve of their very important 2027 Asian Cup qualifier match in opposition to Hong Kong right here.
Positioned in Pot 1 for the qualifiers, India, ranked 127th, received off to a sluggish begin within the qualifiers with a draw in opposition to Bangladesh in March earlier than dropping 0-2 to Thailand in a pleasant final week.
“For my part, most coaches are usually not nervous concerning the scores within the pleasant video games. We’re focussing on the essential match (Hong Kong),” Manolo mentioned.
“I do know everybody speaks concerning the rating (in opposition to Thailand). But when we scored from the possibilities we created, it could have been completely different. That is soccer.”
Out of the three matches they’ve performed up to now this 12 months, they’ve received one, drawn one, and misplaced one.
The Group C desk continues to be a clear slate with all 4 groups degree on a degree apiece after each video games on matchday 1 on March 25 ended goalless.
India and Bangladesh drew in Shillong, whereas Hong Kong additionally received a degree away to Singapore.
Solely the group winners will qualify for the Asian Cup in 2027.
“Our preparations have been significantly better this time, if we evaluate with the earlier FIFA home windows, the place you virtually do not have an excessive amount of time.
“We had about three weeks to organize, between Kolkata, Bangkok, and right here in Hong Kong. And we’re able to carry out. Nothing particular,” mentioned Manolo.
“The surroundings within the group is kind of good as nicely. Clearly, in all groups the world over, the surroundings is best when you’re successful video games continually. However the surroundings, the connection between the gamers, whatever the outcomes, is excellent,” he added.
India centre-back Konsham Chinglensana Singh echoed the coach’s phrases. “We’re nicely ready for the sport after three weeks within the camp. Mentally, and bodily, now we have ready nicely, and are prepared for the sport,” he mentioned.
India, who made it to 2 successive Asian Cups for the primary time in 2023, are aiming to increase the streak. Hong Kong additionally certified for the earlier event, however with just one obtainable berth, both aspect is sure to overlook out.
In what would be the inaugural soccer match on the newly constructed 50,000-capacity Kai Tak Stadium, the tickets reportedly have been bought out and a full home may be anticipated on Tuesday.
“We’ll attempt to benefit from the scenario on this stadium. I do not know if it will likely be utterly full, however lots of people can be there. It will likely be a pleasant occasion, however clearly, we’re specializing in successful the sport,” mentioned Manolo.
Hong Kong’s head coach, Ashley Westwood, is not any stranger to Indian soccer, having coached golf equipment like Bengaluru FC, ATK, and Punjab FC earlier than taking over worldwide teaching roles, first in Afghanistan, adopted by Hong Kong.
“I went to India in 2013, and the nation is 1,000,000 miles away from the place it was again then. I do know their coach, I watched the ISL. He’s a great coach, and he is been doing good issues with FC Goa. He coaches proper, he prepares proper, and his gamers are at all times match.
“The spirit’s good within the squad, and all people will get on with one another. We’re trying ahead to it,” he mentioned.
India and Hong Kong have crossed swords 24 occasions. The Blue Tigers have received 9 of those matches, whereas Hong Kong have received eight. Seven matches have resulted in attracts.
