The Hindu : Sport / Football : India faces a tough task

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, Feb 22, 2006

Sport

Sport - Football

India faces a tough task

Yokohama: The most optimistic of Indian fans can only hope that the National team avoids an embarassing scoreline against defending champion Japan in the first AFC Asian Cup soccer qualifier here on Wednesday.

Zico's World Cup-bound side would be missing its stars who are busy with the various European league outings, but is still expected to be too strong for Baichung Bhutia-led India.

The two teams met in the World Cup qualifiers last year and Indians were soundly thrashed on both the occasions. They conceded seven goals in the away match in Japan, while letting in four at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.

India itself is missing several key players. The absence of defenders Sameer Naik, M. Suresh, midfielders S. Venkatesh, Climax Lawrence and striker Abhishek Yadav would be sorely felt by India. Even Bhutia is coming back after an injury.

But Indian coach Syed Nayeemuddin is talking a good game.

"I have told the players not to feel inferior or underestimate their own potential.

They should take the field thinking they can beat Japan. I am looking for a victory.

My boys are capable of making the team champion," he said.

All India Football Federation has promised Rs 1 lakhs for each member of the squad if it causes a massive upset by beating Japan.

A draw would see them richer by Rs 50,000 each. — PTI

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