Playing at the highest level in Asia gives a lot of experience, says Bibiano Fernandes

The Blue Colts suffered an agonizing defeat to Uzbekistan U-17.

The Indian U-17 football team were handed a heartbreaking defeat by Uzbekistan at the AFC U-17 Asian Cup. Uzbekistan were very dominant all throughout the game but only managed to score once, thanks to their wastefulness in front of goal.

This loss now means that India’s game against Japan is now a must-win clash while hoping Uzbekistan lose to Vietnam. India’s chances of making it to the knockouts have become very slim, and now only a miracle against Japan can save them.

After the game, head coach Bibiano Fernandes answered the questions asked by Khel Now and here’s what he had to say.

Thoughts on the game

Bibiano Fernandes began by sharing his thoughts on the game. He said that he is very proud of his boys because they left no stone unturned.

“It was a good game. We knew it would be difficult. We tried our best. In the first half, we managed to hold them when they were playing well and in the second half, we tried. I am very proud of my boys because they gave their 100% and now we are looking on to the next match now,” he asserted.

Thoughts on Akash Tirkey

Bibiano Fernandes shared his thoughts on the vastly improving Akash Tirkey, “He is a talented guy and we knew if we had to bring him in the second half he can make the difference. He can create some chances as well. In the last game we started him but in this game we wanted to use him as a fresh player in the second half.”

Next game against Japan

“We are on one point and other teams are on four points. If we look at the next match we have a chance if we win against Japan. But we know how Japan is and they are the defending champions. But you never know. We will come up with a plan. If we win, we can qualify.”

Unlucky goal to concede?

The Blue Colts defended with their hearts on their sleeves. When asked if India were unlucky to concede that type of goal after defending so well for the majority of the game, Bibiano replied, "Our defenders did well to block the shots. But, I don't think it was an unlucky one. But, if we had defended more aggressively in that move, we could have defended the shot. Boys gave their best and I am proud of them.”

Korou and Lalpekhlua not performing

India’s skipper Korou Singh and winger Lalpekhlua were performing at the peak of their powers during the build-up to the tournament, but haven’t been able to replicate the same in Thailand.

When asked about the reason behind this, Bibiano said, “Yes, this is a good experience for them. Playing at the highest level in Asia gives a lot of experience. I am sure they have learnt from the last two matches. Playing friendlies and competitive matches are very different. We have learnt and are moving forward as a team,” he signed off.