U-16 SAFF Cup: India Boys look to win the title

The India Under-16 boys play neighbours Pakistan in the final of the inaugural Under-16 SAFF Cup tomorrow at the Dasrath Stadium in Kathmandu. It will be a rematch of the opening game of the tournament and India will look to avenge their 0-1 opening day loss.



India needed penalties to beat hosts Nepal 4-2 after the match had ended one-all. Earlier they had qualified for the semifinals with a 5-0 trashing of Maldives after the opening day shock against Pakistan. The Pakistani boys meanwhile have had a great tournament so far. The have won all their three matches and are still to concede a goal.



But India Under-16 coach Thomas Joseph remains optimistic about his side chances of winning the title and said, "These guys have done a wonderful job till date. We have grown from strength to strength and are all set put our best foot forward in the finals."



India will have talented midfielder Lalramzuava back in the side after serving a one match suspension and Thomas Joseph added, "He is one of our key players. He provides stability in the midfield. It's good to have full strength for such an important match."



The Indian defence played with lots of composure in the last match and will look to repeat the same and especially with a solid keeper in Supratim Bhattacharya in goal.



"He (Supratim) is a very talented goalkeeper and a good future prospect. I would rather say, this lot is very special and everyone is extremely talented," Thomas further added.



Taking a call on the opponent, the India U-16 coach said, "They are a very good team and plays with lot of strength. But, we have already played against them in the group stage and have our plans ready to tackle them. The Boys are also aware of their duties and are all set to give their best shot in the finals."



Indian skipper, Mohammed Sajid Dhot believes that it's just a matter of getting the act right to get the desired result. "Everyone is eagerly waiting for this match. We will need to play good as a team like we have done throughout the tournament."



Vanlalduatsanga has been a revelation upfront and the Mizo lad is looking forward to the match, "It's always good to contribute in success of the team. I am looking forward to it and hope to do well once again."



The match will kick-off in Kathmandu at 15:15 IST.