India ready for Malaysia test tonight

India face Malaysia in the second of their international friendlies tonight at the Saltlake Stadium in Kolkata, West Bengal. The first tie on Sunday in Guwahati had ended in a one-all stalemate and now both sides are looking for a win tonight.

Despite being the home to the Big-Two of Indian football - East Bengal Club & Mohun Bagan AC - where football fanaticism is no less than any other footballing centre around the world, the 'Mecca of Indian Football,' has not quite hosted an International Match involving Team India for a number of years.

Chief Coach Savio Medeira, who recently took over the reins of the team stays keen to get a win under his belt. Veteran midfielder Climax Lawrence said, "Savio has been associated with the team in various capacities and his knowledge would come in handy. He knows what the players want."

Both the teams have played 28 matches so far with India winning 10 and Malaysia, 11. Seven matches, including the Guwahati match, have ended in a draw.

Savio is unlikely to start with the same playing XI as he did in the last match. "We have decided to give every player a fair chance. There's a reason why they are here. The SAFF Championship is round the corner and we need to plan and try out players accordingly," Savio stressed.

"Playing in Kolkata would is an added pressure as the expectations would be high. But at the same time, we need to cash in on the home support."

Savio is likely to give Rocus Lamare a chance in the heart of midfield, while Baljit Singh Sahni could get a look in on the wings with Anwar a candidate to make a comeback at the heart of defence.

The kick-off is slated for 6.30pm and DD Sports will be broadcasting the match live.