VIDEO: Statue of legendary footballer Krishanu Dey is taking shape

Here an exclusive XtraTime report on the statue of legendary footballer Krishanu Dey, which is currently being made to be displayed at the road to be named after him in the locality of Naktala in Kolkata.

FIFA World Rankings: INDIA down 6 spots, now 149th!

The world football governing body FIFA released the latest FIFA World Rankings earlier today in which India dropped six spots to be 149th amongst the 209 ranked nations and territories, while within Asia India remain 25th amongst 46 nations in the rankings. India is 149th behind Luxembourg on 178 points, one more then last month.

Amongst the South Asian nations India continue to be second behind new top side Afghanistan (139th) but ahead of Bangladesh (154th), the Maldives (158th), Pakistan (168th), Nepal (171st), Sri Lanka (172nd) and Bhutan (207th).

India don't have any matches planed for the next few weeks with international friendly matches possible in late-May/early-June.

Meanwhile there has been a couple of changes amongst the top five of the FIFA World Rankings. World champions Spain (1,538 points) stay at the top ahead of Germany (1,428) and Argentina (1,292) with Croatia (1,191) now fourth, up five places; ahead of Portugal (1,163), who gained two spots.

2014 AFC Challenge Cup: Laos & Turkmenistan get last spots!

Former champions India have failed to qualify for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup in Maldives. That was known for some time, but due to the late pullout of Brunei it was not clear which two sides would qualify as the best two teams amongst the five qualification groups.

In the end Laos and Turkmenistan have received the tickets to next year's finals as the two best runners-up as they join hosts Maldives plus the five group winners Myanmar, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Palestine and the Philippines in their quest to qualify for the 2015 AFC Asian Cup.

The non-participation of Brunei in Group E meant that the results of the matches in the four other groups between the runner-up and the bottom-placed team were declared null and void based on Article 16.1 and Appendix 2 of the tournament regulations.

The affected matches were as follows
Group A: India 2-1 Chinese Taipei
Group B: Macau 0-3 Tajikistan
Group C: Laos 1-1 Mongolia
Group D Bangladesh 4-0 Northern Mariana Islands

With these results no longer being factored into the outcome, Laos emerged as the best of the second-placed team with four points. Turkmenistan, AFC Challenge Cup runners-up in 2012 and 2010, took the second ticket to the Maldives, with their superior goal difference separating them from 2008 champions India, Bangladesh and inaugural winners Tajikistan of 2006, who all finished with three points.

VIDEO: Wim Koevermans press conference in Trivandrum

Indian national football team coach Wim Koevermans at a press conference in the Kerala state capital Thiruvananthapuram about Baichung Bhutia being part of the technical committee, Rob Baan's Lakshya Youth Development plans and the cooperation with the I-League clubs.

Pune FC Coach Derrick Pereira: I'm very happy for Arata Izumi

Besides working on the fitness of his players, for Pune FC Coach Derrick Pereira, the Conditioning Course for Football Coaches by former FC Barcelona and Manchester City fitness instructor Raymond Verheijen stayed the highlight of 40-day break in the I-League. In a candid interview to AIFF Media, the veteran coach speaks at length about how Pune FC benefited from the break, his team's National Team players, favourites for the I-League and about his 'once in a lifetime' experience.


How much did the 40-day break help?

It was of immense help. The break helped our injured players recuperate. We were going through a bad phase just before the break and now we stay upbeat and confident again. Most importantly, we have a full squad at our disposal. After all, an injury-free squad boosts you up psychologically.


What stayed the highlight of the break?

For me, it stayed off the field. Raymond Verheijen has to be right up there as one of the lifetime experiences during this break. He is such a big personality in the football world and the three-day Conditioning Course virtually changed my outlook towards the game. I strongly believe that if we can follow the regime and implement it in years to come, Indian football will grow leaps and bounds. Our Technical Director Mr. Rob Baan's Master Plan has shown us the roadmap. Such a Course during the break was so refreshing.


Three Pune FC players were part of India's AFC Challenge Cup campaign. How do you see it?

I am very happy for Arata (Izumi). Over the years I have seen him improve so much in front of my eyes. He has adjusted to Indian conditions well. He has worked very hard to play for India.

As far as Jeje (Lalpekhlua) is concerned, he needs to stay injury-free and I pray that he does. He is an extremely talented footballer who has immense potential. He needs to stay focused and eye that place regularly in the National Team.

Gurjinder (Kumar) is one for the future. He has been a fine player, full of energy. I'm proud he made his debut for the country. We also have quite a few talented players in our Academy who are waiting in the wings for a call-up.


Where does Pune FC go from here?

We have played well this season. The balance of the side is very good and it's paying off. We lost a focus a bit after winning nine on the trot. But against Mumbai FC, though we lost but our boys played really well. It is not always that result reflects the true story. Our aim is to finish on top.


Who would you rate as the favourites in the I-League?

Churchill Brothers, East Bengal and Dempo look good. Frankly it is difficult to pick one favourite at the moment. The battle is very intense and it will be closely contested.


What's the secret of Pune FC's Academy Team staying so consistent in the U-20 League for I-League teams?

Our management deserves all the credit for putting up such a sound Academy in place. A lot of emphasis is paid on Youth Development Programme and it's really sound. I need to mention Ranjan Chowdhury's name and the entire Academy staff for their relentless efforts.

(Interview & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

FIFA World Rankings: INDIA gain 24 spots rise to 143rd!

The world football governing body FIFA released the latest FIFA World Rankings earlier today in which India gained a personal record 24 spots to be 143rd amongst the 209 ranked nations and territories, while within Asia India moved into 25th place amongst 46 nations in the rankings. India is 143rd behind Barbados and Gambia on 177 points, 79 more then last month.

Amongst the South Asian nations India continue to be second behind new top side Afghanistan (141st) but ahead of Bangladesh (157th), the Maldives (161st), Pakistan (171st), Sri Lanka (173rd), Nepal (175th) and Bhutan (207th).

India this month gained that many points due to their wins against Chinese Taipei and Guam in the qualifiers for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup, but lost vital points due to their loss to Myanmar.

Meanwhile there has been no changes amongst the top five of the FIFA World Rankings. World champions Spain (1,610 points) stay at the top ahead of Germany (1,473), Argentina (1,309), England (1,174) and Italy (1,173).

Does Team India need long preparations ahead of friendlies & tournaments?

Since the end of the Group A qualifiers for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup last week in Yangon, Myanmar I have been asking myself if Team India needs longer preparations ahead of the international friendlies and tournaments.

I am saying so as it is something that former India coach Bob Houghton used to say and insists on. He was no fan of one-off international friendlies on FIFA match dates, then that meant pulling out players for two to three days from their I-League clubs with minimal to no real match preparations.

And as friendlies against Singapore (0-2) and Palestine (2-4) under Wim Koevermans have shown such a schedule does not suit the Indian national team players well.

Now the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers preparations in Pune weren't the best either as East Bengal Club and Churchill Brothers SC players had to leave the India camp to play AFC Cup matches for their clubs.

All these are factors to show what has hampered Team India lately as Bob Houghton minutely planned everything for the Nehru Cup's, AFC Challenge Cup and even the AFC Asian Cup in Qatar with long, planned camps. He even took out players from the I-League to prepare for the Asian Cup, the biggest tournament India played in years and maybe in years to come.

Therefore the above is something which needs to happen again and success will surely come...

PHOTOs: Sunil Chhetri at Nike's #BEMERCURIAL event in Mumbai

Indian national football team captain Sunil Chhetri was yesterday at a Nike Store on Linking Road in Mumbai as part of the #BEMERCURIAL campaign of Nike India. A few selected young footballers got the chance meet Chhetri at the event!

(Photos courtesy Nike India)

VIDEO: India's Mehtab & Nabi praise their clubs

On their return from their 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers campaign for India, East Bengal's Mehtab Hussain and Mohun Bagan's Syed Rahim Nabi have been all praise for their respective clubs on XtraTime.

VIDEO: Myanmar 1-0 India winner goal!

India suffered a 0-1 loss against hosts Myanmar in their final Group A qualifying match for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup at the Yangon Training Centre yesterday. Here the goal substitute Soe Min Oo scored in the 75th minute.

2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers: Myanmar beat India

India suffered a 0-1 loss against hosts Myanmar in their final Group A qualifying match for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup at the Yangon Training Centre. Substitute Soe Min Oo made the difference between the two teams in the 75th minute.

Courtesy the victory, Myanmar topped Group A with seven points and qualified for the final phase of the Tournament to be played in Maldives in 2014. India finished second on six points and have to wait for a few more days and finish as one of the two top second-placed teams.

"We have ourselves to blame. We just couldn't keep the ball and gave it away too often. It was a must-win match for Myanmar," a disappointed National Coach Wim Koevermans said after the match.

"But at the same time, we had three positive chances in the first-half and one in the second-half which hit the post. Against a team as Myanmar, you need to capitalise on them. If not, you will be punished. I congratulate Myanmar for the performance," he added. Myanmar were also alert to have made a goalline save in the dying minutes.

You can never counter what Koevermans said. India did start on a positive note. In the first half, they played the tactical game preferring to wait at times and trying to exploit the gaps in the Myanmar midfield. There was a penchant for stretching it to the flanks and the ploy worked. If you simply go by the number of chances created in the first half, the Indians had "three positive ones" each of them which could have yielded a goal.

The first one came in the 16th minute when Clifford Miranda's powerful blaster from inside the box thundered against the boards instead of the next. The next one came in the 43rd minute - Clifford, well placed inside the box to take a cracker, tried to find Sunil Chhetri allowing the Myanmar defence to recover. In the very next minute, Mehtab Hossain's through set up Jewel Raja on the right. Jewel entered the box with Sunil preferring to do the dummy. Much to the relief of the crowd, Jewel preferred to find Sunil rather than going himself and both the teams went into the resumption goalless.

These apart, there were series of corners earned in the first half along with a number of throw-ins around the Myanmar box, all of which were floated in by Raju Gaikwad. The closest India came was in the 35th minute when his throw venomously dipped and beat all even as Sunil Chhetri tried to flick it in.

Myanmar were quick in their counter-attacks. Gurjinder Kumar was yellow carded for tripping Kyi Lin from behind in the 17th minute. Lin was initiating a counter attack and had with a deft turn, got past Gurjinder.

Post resumption, Myanmar were off the blocks faster. The first positive chance came in the 51st minute but Subrata Pal, till then, not tested in the match kept at bay a Kyi Lin low shot. The nippy Lin interchanged all throughout and in the very next minute almost laid the platform for Myanmar to take the lead but Kaw Zayar Win failed to tap in Lin's through from close. They were tense moments in the Indian camp and obviously, the decibel levels rose.

The Indians tried to regroup. Intercepting a counter-attack, Chhetri laid it for Jewel in the box but the latter instead tried to find Chhetri instead of pulling the trigger.

In between, Denzil Franco was yellow-carded for pushing David Htan on the far right and then, Gouramangi Singh was yellow carded for tripping substitute Soe Min Oo just outside the box. But Myanmar failed to capitalise. Instead, Jewel almost put India in the lead. He latched on to the second ball off a Raju throw but his prompt right-footer hit the post and bounced back.

The goal came in the 75th minute. Myanmar, pressing hard, managed to float it in the box from the left and Soe Min Oo scored from a melee.

In the 80th minute, Arata followed a Raju throw-in and tapped in from close but only for defender Zaw Min to make a goalline save. Myanmar managed to hold on till the end.

There was pin drop silence in the team bus on way back to the Team Hotel. But as Koevermans summed it up: "We have ourselves to blame."


MATCH STATS

Myanmar 1-0 (0-0) India - Goals: 1-0 Soe Min Oo (75')

Myanmar
1-Thiha Si Thu [C] - 3-Zaw Min Htun, 12-Aung Hein Kyaw, 13-Yan Aung Win, 36-Thet Naing - 6-Yan Aung Kyaw, 7-Yar Zar Win Thein, 8-Kyi Lin, 14-David Htan, 29-Paing Soe - 9-Yaza Win Thein

India
1-Subrata Pal - 2-Denzil Franco, 19-Gouramangi Moirangthem Singh, 3-Raju Eknath Gaikwad, 31-Gurjinder Kumar Singh - 10-Francis Fernandes (83' 22-Syed Rahim Nabi), 6-Lenny Rodrigues (71' ?-Izumi Arata, 7-Mehtab Hossain, 15-Clifford Miranda - 23-Jewel Raja Sheikh (77' 24-Robin Singh) - 11-Sunil Chhetri [C]

2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers: India to give '200 percent' for Mission Possible against Myanmar

India coach Wim Koevermans watched Myanmar after both of India's matches at the Yangon Training Centre. The boys watched them on a local television channel in their rooms. "They are a very tough team," all agree.

"At the back of the mind, you may be forced to think about a draw which will see us through. But we won't play for a draw," Koevermans utters to his boys.

For the record, India are top of the Group with six points from two matches while Myanmar, placed second are on four points. The top team from the Group qualifies for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup which is to be held in Maldives, while two of the five best runners-up also qualify.

"In such a match, there's no place for any errors on the field. We need to keep possession and not give it away easily. In the last two matches, we have been casual at times to gift away the ball to our rivals. Against Myanmar, we can't do that," Mehtab Hossain who has been omnipresent on the green in the last two matches, echoes.

There are others too who are sitting in his room – Captain Sunil Chhetri, Syed Rahim Nabi, Shouvik Ghosh and Alwyn George.

"Let's not forget they will have support from the stands and from what we saw, it's a noisy crowd. Teams when backed by passionate fans can be very dangerous. That stays a big challenge for us," Chhetri echoes.

"It's an ultimate test for our temperament. In such a match, we need to give our 200 percent. And we will," Mehtab joins the conversation again. "It's understandable, they will go all out, they have little option."

Nabi adds, "Myanmar have their back to the wall. Such teams are very dangerous. They have nothing to lose at the moment. As Coach has said, we won't play for a draw. We just can't."

"We need to begin from where we finished the Guam match," goalkeeper Subrata Pal mentions. "The match reminds me of our last Group League match in the AFC Challenge Cup against Turkmenistan in 2008 in Hyderabad. A draw could have seen us through but we won the match and then went on to beat Myanmar in the semis," he recollects. "We need to qualify at any cost."

"This match will define the next four years for us. If we don't go through, the doors of the Asian Cup 2015 will be closed for us. We will then have to wait for the next edition which will be held in 2019," Nabi pronounces. Chhetri walks up to put his hand on Nabi's shoulder. "Sunil, we cannot let this chance go," Nabi goes on. Chhetri taps his shoulder again. Mehtab was checking the studs of his boots by then.

"We've watched Myanmar and will stick to our Coach's instructions. We have toiled hard to reach to this stage. The next 90 minutes will be defining," Arata Izumi maintains.

"More than proving to others, it's more of a match to prove to yourself that you can," Mehtab opines. "They will be under immense pressure. We have to capitalise on that," Nabi complements him.

Despite playing two matches in three days, there's a buzz in everyone's steps. Even as the Medical Staff carry out the regular recovery sessions, everyone talks about the mission ahead; and they know, it's not impossible.

We turn to the 'baby' of the team – Gurjinder Kumar. Gurjinder has shown composure in his first two International matches and he too knows the importance of the match. "We had a meeting among the defenders. Paul's running commentary guides me on the field a lot as does Gouramangi's instructions," he informs. "I'm more mature as a player and feel so much confident after being picked for the National Team."

Clifford Miranda joins in. When reminded of his two goals in last three International matches, he smiles. "We have to believe in ourselves and play to our potential. There's no reason why we can't. After all, we have come here with that sole aim," he declares. There's appreciation from everyone.

The squad has been staying away from their families for almost a month. And though a Preparatory Camp followed by a Tournament may seem a glamorous one, reality bites. In a diversified country as India where every player, perhaps has a different eating habit, the food in Myanmar, though off good quality, hasn't suited taste buds of many. But they have never complained.

It's all for the mission, a mission which they know isn't impossible. But to overcome it, you need to be together.

(Report & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

Sunil Chhetri: Motivation level stays high in such matches

India Captain Sunil Chhetri who scored two goals against Guam in India's last match of the AFC 2014 Challenge Cup qualifiers feels the 'team plays well in such matches'. A day prior to the big day, Chhetri spoke at length to AIFF Media about what needs to be done, the intensity of the situation, the mood in the camp, his perception about Myanmar and much more.


What needs to be done in such a situation?

In such a Tournament, we need to realise that everything which we have done till now will nullify if we don't qualify from this Group – right from the Pune camp to the high intensity practice sessions to the two victories in two matches – everything will be valueless. We need to be very careful and aim for what we want to achieve.


What has been your perception about Myanmar?

They are a very tough team with good technical qualities. Let's not forget that they will be playing at home and be backed by a vociferous hostile support. But at the same time, we need to remember that we have bettered ourselves in the last two games. Everyone is ready for the task.


What is the mood in the Camp at present?

We are confident after the back to back victories which we achieved against Chinese Taipei and Guam. I personally believe we play well in such kind of matches as you are automatically charged up and the motivation level also stays high.


How does it feel to be back among goals?

(Smiles). Scoring goals makes me happy – in fact, that's a worldwide trend. I missed a couple of chances in the first match and getting two goals to my name adds to my confidence. I will try my best to find the back of the rival net in the match against Myanmar. But it just doesn't matter as to who scores as long as we qualify and achieve our aim.


Is Captaincy an added responsibility?

I had never believed it earlier but am feeling the responsibility a bit more now at the moment. I don’t know how good or bad I am, but am going my best to do my job. I need to admit that having players from the same batch – Subrata Pal, Syed Rahim Nabi, Gouramangi Singh, Syed Rahim Nabi, Mehtab Hossain makes my job easier.

(Interview & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

Wim Koevermans: We could have scored ten goals!

"We had aimed for three points and we have achieved it," National Coach Wim Koevermans pronounced at the post-match Press Conference after India's 4-0 win against Guam at the Yangon Training Centre earlier today.

"We could have scored more goals but it was Guam who had the first chance of the match when one of their shots hit the post and went out," he added. "That was a wake-up call for us."

"But after that, we took control and there was hardly any threat from our opponents. If you look back at the chances which we created, we could have scored more than 10 goals. But that's football," Wim maintained.

Referring to a question whether India can beat Myanmar, Koevermans quipped, "We are here to win. I feel every team is here to win too. It will be an interesting match for sure. But we have beaten higher-ranked teams in the recent past and we take inspiration from it."

"We gave away the ball a bit too easily at times," Wim maintained coming back to the Guam match. "There was pressure on the players as this was a must-win match for us. We had our chances but just couldn't score,” Wim reiterated.

In the end India won, while Myanmar were held to a surprise one-all draw by Chinese Taipei which leaves India at the top with six points.

2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers: India beat 4-0 against Guam

Team India won their second match in the Group A qualifiers for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup, but India had to wait until the second half though in the end winning 4-0 against Guam at the Thuwanna Yangon Training Centre Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar. India now have six points from two matches.

Captain Sunil Chhetri opened the scoring in the 49th minute and scored another in injury-time, while Clifford Miranda and Jewel Raja Shaikh scored one apiece in the 68th and the 80th minute respectively.

After a goalless first half, Chhetri drew the first blood four minutes after resumption. He followed Lenny Rodrigues' through pass, beat the off-side trap and slotted it past the rival goalkeeper Douglas Herrick, much to the relief of all. And then the floodgates opened. The second one came in the 68th minute with Clifford Miranda blasting home his left-footer after being set up by Mehtab Hossain.

Jewel placed the third goal to perfection after being found unmarked inside the box by substitute C.K. Vineeth while Chhetri scored the fourth, heading in a Mehtab Hossain corner in the first minute of injurz time. Todaz's goals took Chhetri's tally of international goals to 40, two short of India's all-time record holder, former India Captain Baichung Bhutia.

It was a tactical display by the Indians against Guam, who at times looked ultra-defensive. Finding it difficult to break free among the crowd of legs, the Indians preferred to use the flanks in the second half and opened-up the rivals.

But one needs to mention that India were not off to the perfect start. Guam, physical, seized the early initiative and threatened to frustrate the Indians in the midfield. The plot worked for them and as early as the 8th minute, Jonahan Romero’s shot beat a diving Subrata Pal, hit the post and went out. It was the wake-up call for India.

India had their first chance in the 19th minute when Syed Rahim Nabi set up Jewel Raja Sheikh inside the box. Jewel trapped it, sidestepped Guam's central defender Travis Nicklaw but shot wide. Two minutes later, Chhetri, playing an one-two with Nabi entered the box but Herrick was up to the task.

The Indians laboured hard and halfway into the first half, they were omnipresent on the field. Guam, by the 35th minute itself, had fallen down to defend. At times, you could find all of their eleven players in their own half. Once around the box, it was hard to find the route, the jungle crowd of legs making it all the more difficult for India.

There were a series of corners which India earned but it didn't yield any result. In the 39th minute, a counter-attack saw Mehtab Hossain feed Chhetri inside the box but the fate didn't change as both teams went to the resumption with a clean slate.

Changing over, the urgency was visible right from the kick-off. In the 46th minute, Lenny set up Clifford Miranda inside the box but his powerful shot narrowly sailed over. And almost immediately, India surged ahead. Lenny split the rival defence which saw Chhetri beat the off-side trap and with all the time in the World at his disposal, slotting it past Herrick wasn't much of a task. It was a relief, a much-needed one for India.

In the 56th minute, Mehtab found Clifford on the left flank but Jewel failed to tap Clifford's centre from inside the box. It sailed over. A minute later, a build-up from the back had Guam chasing all quarters. It ended with Lenny Rodrigues' shot missing the upright narrowly. And then in the 58th minute, Chhetri's powerful header off a Raju Gaikwad throw-in narrowly sailed over again, the third one in three consecutive minutes. The trend continued - in the 67th minute, a Denzil floater found Jewel with only the goalkeeper to beat, he too tapped over. But it was not for long that Guam could hold on. The goal which was very much inevitable came in the 68th minute – this time Clifford Miranda blasting it home.

Substitute C.K. Vineeth had, perhaps, the best chance in the second half but he couldn't find the target with only Herrick to beat with what was his first touch on the ball.

It didn’t prove costly as Jewel scored India's third goal in the 80th minute, his second one in consecutive matches. But more was in store. A trademark Chhetri header found the back of the Guam net in the first minute of injury-time – India winning 4-0.

Team India in their final group match play hosts Myanmar on March 6.


MATCH STATS

INDIA 4-0 (0-0) Guam - Goals: 1-0,4-0 Sunil Chhetri (49',90+1'), 2-0 Clifford Miranda (68'), 3-0 Jewel Raja Shaikh (80')

1-Subrata Pal - 2-Denzil Franco, 19-Gouramangi Moirangthem Singh, 3-Raju Eknath Gaikwad, 31-Gurjinder Kumar Singh - 22-Syed Rahim Nabi (46' 10-Francis Fernandes), 6-Lenny Rodrigues (61' ?-Izumi Arata), 7-Mehtab Hossain, 15-Clifford Miranda (75' ?-C.K. Vineeth) - 23-Jewel Raja Sheikh - 11-Sunil Chhetri [C]

2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers: India want to keep momentum going against Guam

After their opening match 2-1 victory against Chinese Taipei, Team India is hoping to keep the momentum going against the Pacific islanders from Guam, who lost their opener 0-5 against hosts Myanmar.

The morning after the victory was supposed to be smiling; instead, you find toughened jaws. The breakfast table was supposed to be 'sunny side-up'; instead, you overhear football. The journey to the morning recovery session was supposed to be whistling; instead you could hear your own breath. Determination, Task at hand, be silent and look ahead.

"We needed three points in the first match," Captain Sunil Chhetri echoes. "That has set the ball rolling. We are prepared for the next challenge," he adds.

"There's no place for complacency," coach Wim Koevermans tells all. "Never underestimate your opponents. Never switch-off. If you do, you'll pay the price."

The boys listen. Somewhere down their heart, they know it more than anyone. 'Drastic seven minutes' had cost them the match against Palestine; two slip-ups had cost them the match against Singapore. Those ghosts of those two matches, nevertheless, stay buried.

"International Football is all about fighting for every inch," Mehtab Hossain seems to remind you of epic Mahabharata's famous dialogue. "As the Coach said, we can never be casual. At the same time, we need to get over the tendency to concede," he quips.

"Goals never come easy. You need to toil hard to score. And once when you have done it, we need to hold onto that and capitalise further. When we score, it's a team effort. Likewise, when we concede, it's a collected failure," he maintained.

"Against Myanmar, Guam conceded some soft goals too. We can never take them lightly. There are quite a few US-base players in their squad," he informs.

For the record, two players from the Guam squad play in the MLS while three of them play in the Philippines League. "We've had a week's training camp in Thailand to allow our foreign-based players acclimatise," Guam's English Coach Gary White, informs. "We are very positive and confident. We have done our homework prior to coming here."

"It's important to get back to winning ways," Goalkeeper Subrata Pal quips. "We kept on fighting for 95 minutes against Chinese Taipei and at no time gave it up. The win against Chinese Taipei motivates us to do better."

"We have been playing some good brand of football since the Nehru Cup. People may point to our international friendlies against Singapore and Palestine but we stayed dominant in both the matches," Clifford Miranda maintains. "Winning is a habit. We need to achieve it on a regular basis."

At the morning recovery session, the first XI which started against Taipei spends time with fitness trainer Pradip Datta, the others with Wim Koevermans.

"Syed Rahim Nabi and Robin Singh made the difference against Taipei. We did have possession and were definitely the better time but time was running out. Looking back, we should have settled it earlier," Chhetri pronounces.

The duo didn't care for anything else other than hitting the target during the morning session. One overheard goalkeeper Sandip Nandy asking Nabi in a jocular tone as to what did he have for breakfast. "You can hit the bird of the eye," Nandy added, as Nabi, by then, had perfected hitting at the two top corners of the net.

You walk up to Nabi. "Jeet-te hobey, jeet-te hobey," he repeats in Bengali (We need to win)."

"Come over boys," whistles Koevermans and then it starts again. Nabi by then was bulging the top-corners with the same consistency. Others clapped, whistled too.

Koevermans hasn't yet announced his final XI as yet. The kick-off against Guam at the Yangon Training Centre tomorrow is at 4pm local time (3pm IST).

(Report & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

Clifford Miranda: Medical staff helps us play at high intensity

Challenges of international football stay multiple. Playing three matches in five days in such a high-intensity Tournament such as the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers is bound to have a toll on the players. Hence, it's imperative the footballers recover fast. Medical Science points to it, Wim Koevermans understands it; the Medical Staff works 24x7 to ensure it's done!

"Recovery means getting a player fit for the next training session and for the next match," Dr. Manabendra Bhattacharyya, Consultant, Sports Medicine, AIFF, informs. "You require adequate food, time and rest to recover fast; and along with that hydration."

"Players lose a lot of fluid from the body during the 90 minutes of the match and they need to be re-hydrated again," Bhattacharyya says.

The Medical staff made it a point to measure the weights of every player prior to the Chinese Taipei match and the same process was repeated the next day morning. "In a single match, a player may lose 4 to 6 kilos of body weight depending on the workload and the kms run during the match. This has to be replenished the next day. It's urgent," Bhattacharyya adds.

"Apart from this, we also have ice-baths immediately after every practice session. Ice-batch helps in draining out the metabolic waste products and facilitates quicker recovery," he pronounces.

For a team which travels to different destinations, arranging for an ice-bath stays, perhaps, the biggest challenge for Team Manager Sriniwas Murthy. It's not in every country and venue that one gets the facilities. Hence, the National Team nowadays travels with inflatable mini swimming pools. It's inflated in the Dressing room or sometimes, even on the ground and the players just love it. The National Team has 10 of them.

Ask Subrata Pal and he is all praise for the Medical staff. "In our clubs, we don't get such facilities. In the National team, the Medical Staff takes care of us," he says.

"It's not only about ice-bath alone. There's a constant tab on what we eat, the timings of compulsory rest, massages, etc. Playing three matches in five days is tough, that too in this heat. We need to thank our support staff for keeping us fit," he declares.

In Masseur Liaqat Ali's room, Clifford Miranda lies on the table as Liaqat runs his nimble fingers over him. "I do around five-six massages per day or maybe even more depending on the situation," Liaqat, who hails from Hyderabad, informs.

"We keep a tab on the players. On a day, some players get more tired than others; some run more than others. Hence, we put up a priority list and proceed with massage," Physio Gigy George informs.

"We need to get both the mind and the body needs ready for the match. If the muscles are tight, there can be a micro tear. We treat the cause, not the pain," Gigy propheses.

"Let me tell you, without our Medical Staff, we wouldn't have been able to play matches with the same intensity. There's a difference between playing and playing with high intensity. We owe it to Dr. Bhattacharyya, Gigy and Liaqat-bhai," Clifford maintains. "They help us get rid of our fatigue, the body loss and takes care of our knocks."

At a time when everyone focuses on the field, it's pertinent to also look behind the scenes and the backroom staff. And there, on National Team assignments, you'll find the trio planning everything to perfection. What if none sings a ballad for them, "it's all about team work," Gigy smiles.

Keeping in mind recent medical reports, only normal Olive Oil or Baby Oil is used for massage. "There were reports which linked specific oils to doping. Hence, we stay careful," Liaqat goes on.

"Besides, we also use the foam roller for self myofascial release. It's a common practice in Europe too," Gigy quips. "We need to improve the circulation and prepare the muscles for the next match. Prevention is better than cure," Gigy says. You can never doubt him.

Liaqat by then had finished with Clifford. Mehtab was next. Lenny enquires about his timing. "You are at 4.30pm," he was told.

(Report & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

Match-Winner Robin Singh: It's a confidence booster for me!

Coming on a substitute against Chinese Taipei, Robin Singh ensured the 'most important match of the Tournament' yielded India three full points in the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers. The morning after, the lad from Delhi spoke to AIFF Media about what it means to score a winner for the country, the next match against Guam, his 'regained confidence', and much more.


What does it mean for you to score India's winner in injury time?

It's my first goal for my country and that too, a winning one. Honestly, it took long for the feeling to sink in. It's a proud moment not only for me but also my family. I can imagine and excitement and the pride of my mom and dad. After all, we are a country of 120 crore of people and I was the one who saw my country through. I dedicate this goal to my parents.

But this is just my start. I need to move on from it and concentrate on the next match.


Does anything change for Robin Singh with this goal?

It makes me more confident as a player! It's the AFC Challenge Cup being played in a different country and scoring in a foreign country, far way from all my near and dear ones, makes it all the more satisfying. It's a special moment for me as much as it's a confidence booster. In fact, I was so overwhelmed that I even forgot to even celebrate my first International goal. I just hope, plenty more follow (smiles).


What are the team's thoughts against Guam?

First things first – every team is here to win. If we will be playing to win, so would Guam. But it's a different team who may have a different technique and tactic. We will stick to ours Coach's plans. We were desperate for a win in the first match of the Tournament and now that we have achieved it, we need to sustain the momentum.

Personally speaking, I look forward to getting a chance and scoring again.


There's a perception Robin Singh hasn't done justice to his talent.

(Smiles again). I've never felt that way. But yeah, people will have their opinions. You just can't control or influence what they think. My Coaches will tell you that I've never shied away from working hard and sweating it out. But at the same time I admit that I am upset when I don't score. It happens. The perception will change for sure. I won't let my talent go waste and the fact that I am donning the India Blue explains it hasn't.


What much is life a learning curve for you at the moment, especially from the bench?

I need to remember that I have just joined the team. I need to be fit, sharp and confident enough for the Coach to put his faith in me. A player always needs to be patient and understand the situation. Whatever the Coach asks for me, I'm there for the team – be it 5 minutes, be it 55 minutes or be it 90 minutes.


You have a whole lot of tattoos – can you explain their significance.

(Smiles again). I have five tattoos. I have one on the leg – it's a tattoo of stars. I believe in stars and it's important one always dreams big. Nine is my lucky number, hence, I have nine stars on my left leg.

I also have a tattoo of a Warrior on my right shoulder which signifies hard work and fighting through rough times. There's also a Prayer, with a Cross on my right shoulder. My mom is a Christian and hence, I had it. Then I have a tattoo of all my family names on my chest – my family always will stay close to my heart. Lastly on the back, I have a tattoo of Faith. I need to believe in myself, my abilities and talent.

(Interview & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)

2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers: India score injury-time winner against Chinese Taipei

In their opening match of the Group A qualifiers for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup, Team India needed an injury time winner to win 2-1 against Chinese Taipei at the Thuwanna Yangon Training Centre Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar.

Midfielder Jewel Raja Shaikh put India ahead in the 40th minute while substitute Robin Singh headed in the winner in the first minute of injurz time. In between, Lee Tai Lin has equalised for Chinese Taipei in the 54th minute.

After a series of raids at the rival citadel, India finally surged ahead in the 40th minute. Jewel who was playing with one-twos with Chhetri with much aplomb slipped past the two rival Central defenders, trapped Chhetri's through with poise and sent it past the rival goalkeeper Lun Kun Chi.

The last 15 minutes prior to the goal, it was all about India. In the 25th minute, Gouramangi Singh followed Clifford Miranda's corner but his header deflected for a corner. The resultant two corners went abegging and then in the 38th minute, Mehtab Hossain's long-ranger was fisted out.

In this phase earned India five corners and debutant Gurjinder Kumar came agonisingly close to heading one in but the ball hit his top of the head and going the other way.

It wasn't about the corners alone. India played to a plan and from the stands it seemed it was tactic-board football on the lush green. The synchronisation was just about perfect with everyone having two options as supports, be it wherever in the field. They were willing to roam around, slow it down, build it from the back and look for the runs and one-twos. Possession once gained was not to be lost with Chinese Taipei chasing them.

Earlier, India began on a cautious note. Not willing to let open much, they were content to play the waiting game. And then slowly, they took control. The midfield played among themselves allowing Chhetri and Jewel to time their runs. Francis Fernandes and Nirmal Chhetri did break free a couple of occasions down the right but the rival defence recovered in time.

This apart, India had two more chances – Raju Gaikwad's throw in the 20th minute dipped alarmingly to beat all in the rival box but the flurry of legs didn’t allow any Blue to tap it in and then Mehtab Hossain was set up by Sunil Chhetri inside the rival box but the Taipei goalkeeper Lu Kun Chi anticipated it in time. Chinese Taipei defended and depended on counters and much against the run of play had almost scored in the 11th minute but an alert Subrata Paul was acrobatic enough to tap over a Chen Yi Wei freekick from outside the box.

But the complexion changed almost immediately after resumption. Chinese Taipei equalised in the 54th minute – Lee Tai Lin heading in Su De Cai's corner. The goal pushed the Indians on the backfoot and all of a sudden, Taipei, for a brief period, had a bit more of the possession.

But not for long! The Indians regrouped fast. AIFF Player-of-the-Year Syed Rahim Nabi replaced Francis Fernandes in the 68th minute and the Indians seemed to be playing all over by then. But with the entire Chinese Taipei team having fallen back by then, breaking through seemed difficult.

Wim Koevermans brought on Robin Singh in place of Jewel in the 82nd minute and with India attacking down the middle and the two flanks, the goal seemed inevitable.

The wait ended in the first minute of injury-time when Robin leaped high to head in Nabi's centre from the right. India won 2-1, a "deserving win", as Koevermans said at the post-match Press Conference.

The fighting spirit of the boys and the manner they pressed till the dead end deserve praise. "It's a big day for us. We need to win," Chhetri had uttered the moment he had stepped out for the breakfast. And they did!

India next play Guam on March 4 and look forward to another win.



MATCH STATS

INDIA 2-1 (1-0) Chinese Taipei - Goals: 1-0 Jewel Raja Sheikh (23'), 1-1 Lee Tai Lin (54'), 2-1 Robin Singh (90+1')

INDIA
1-Subrata Pal - 4-Nirmal Chettri, 19-Gouramangi Moirangthem Singh, 3-Raju Eknath Gaikwad, 31-Gurjinder Kumar Singh - 10-Francis Fernandes (68' 22-Syed Rahim Nabi), 6-Lenny Rodrigues, 7-Mehtab Hossain, 15-Clifford Miranda - 23-Jewel Raja Sheikh (82' Robin Singh) - 11-Sunil Chhetri [C]

Guam Squad for 2014 AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers

Guam have finalised their squad for the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup Group A qualifiers in which they would face India, Chinese Taipei and Guam.

The pacific islanders are considered the minnows in the group, but under coach Gary John White they have improved a lot and have brought in player of Guam origin to strengthen the squad.


GUAM

Goalkeepers
Doug Herrick (Seattle Sounders FC U-23, USA), Dallas Jaye (United States University of South Florida, USA)

Defenders
Dominic Gadia (Cars Plus, Guam), Mark Chargualaf (Table 35 Espada, Guam), Scott Leon Guerrero (Quality Distributors, Guam), Micah Paulino (Niagara University, USA), Christian Schweizer (Table 35 Espada, Guam), Jonahan Romero (Kaya, Philippines), Shawn Nicklaw (HB Køge, Denmark)

Midfielders
Jason Cunliffe (Captain | Pachanga, Philippines), Ian Mariano (Pachanga, Philippines), Dylan Naputi (Table 35 Espada, Guam), Ian Adamos (SoCal Elite, USA), Marcus Lopez (Guam Shipyard, Guam), Ryan Guy (New England Revolution, USA), Thaddeus Atalig (Table 35 Espad, Guam), Travis Nicklaw (San Diego State University, USA), John Matkin (United Sikkim FC, India)

Strikers
Zachary DeVille (California State University, Northridge, USA), Sean Navarro, David Nussbaum, Jorge Valenzo

Officials
Gary John White (Head Coach)