What did Igor Stimac say after his sending off against Pakistan?

The Blue Tigers played Pakistan in their 2023 SAFF Championship opener.

India’s game against Pakistan in the 2023 SAFF Championship saw unmatched passion and character from both sets of teams, who gave in their all to get a victory against a prime national rival. 

India claimed a commanding win against Pakistan, and scored four past the team in white. 

The incredibly feisty affair also saw an adrenaline-fueled moment, when India’s head coach Igor Stimac was shown a red card just moments before the lemon break. 

The red card incident

It all began when Igor interfered with Pakistan's throw-in, which according to him shouldn’t have been awarded, due to a foul on Pritam Kotal during the process. 

Igor Stimac pushed the ball away from the hands of Pakistan’s Abdullah Iqbal, who was ready to take the throw. 

This action by the Croatian, sparked an incredibly bitter reaction from the visitors. The referee and other match officials had to intervene to separate the intensely sparring individuals, after which Igor Stimac was shown a red card for unruly actions. 

Igor Stimac’s statement

After the game, Stimac spoke about his actions, and claimed that he ‘will do it again’ to protect his players.

“Football is all about passion, especially when you defend the colours of your country. You can hate or love me for my actions yesterday, but I am a warrior and I will do it again when needed to protect our boys on the pitch against unjustified decisions,” said Stimac on his Twitter handle.

The Aftermath

India however went on to score two more goals in the second half, and have gotten a perfect start to their SAFF Championship 2023 campaign. With their win against Pakistan on Wednesday, India now have clean sheets in seven consecutive games, which is a record for the national team. 

The Blue Tigers now play against Nepal on Saturday, in their second group fixture.