We are still focused on what we can do here, says Igor Stimac before Syria clash in AFC Asian Cup 2023

Igor Stimac also shed light on how India are trying to improve their defensive sturdiness.

After a couple of defeats in their opening 2023 AFC Asian Cup games, India’s focus now shifts to their last group stage game against Syria. The Blue Tigers can still possibly qualify for the knockouts rounds and are expected to go all out in pursuit of it.

Ahead of the match, India’s head coach Igor Stimac addressed the media and shared his thoughts. 

Thoughts ahead of the game

Igir Stimac shared his thoughts ahead of the game and said that it will be a crucial fixture for both the teams. 

“It’s the last game in the group. It will be a crucial game for both Syria and India as both teams are seeking a win to stand any chance for qualifying into the next round. It is expected to be a good game with good quality football and a good fight. We finally have a full squad available and as a coach I’m happy about that,” he asserted.

What if India win and qualify?

The head coach was asked what if India win against Syria and qualify for the knockouts. He replied and said that it will be an amazing achievement for the team. 

“That will be an amazing achievement for India. Prior to coming here, we were aware about how unlucky we were with injuries of key players and how much we will miss them. But, we did everything to learn, strengthen and grow our game and use this experience for what’s coming in March and June.”

He also mentioned that his players are still focused and concentrated and maybe the chance will come India’s way tomorrow.

“We are still focused and well-concentrated on what we can do here. The result is in God’s hands, but hopefully we will use one of the chances that we create. We did not score in the first two games, but hopefully the chance will come tomorrow,” he said.

Update on Sahal Abdul Samad

The head coach also shared an update on midfielder Sahal Abdul Samad and said that he might take part in the game against Syria.

“Sahal might also take part in this game. He feels good and he has had several full training sessions with the team in the last couple of days. But, it doesn’t mean that he will start the game. We will reconsider the level and see where we stand at his fitness level,” he commented.

Goals conceded at tournament

India have conceded five goals in two matches. Sharing his thoughts on the same, Igor Stimac said that his side’s defensive shape and marking has not been up to the mark.

“The point which I’m not happy about is the defensive shape and reactions inside the box. Marking has not been good and it has cost us in the last two games and also the game against Qatar in the World Cup Qualifiers.

“Awareness needs to be at the highest level when the crosses come in. Regarding the second ball, our reactions are late. We are working on it and hopefully we are going to improve,” he said.

Support from Indian Government

The Croatian also spoke about the support from the Indian government and said that the govt. is taking many initiatives to develop sports in the country.

“The Indian govt. is doing many good things to support Indian sports. And obviously things have changed and improvements are there in Indian football. The league has got bigger and better.”

He added, “Many problems are with regards to the size of India, including many states where the footballing culture is lost. Things will change, but lots of hard work and patience is required. I’m well aware that India is full of talented players but they need proper academies, education and competition to grow their game.”

Style of play

Speaking about his side’s style of play, Stimac said that India will try and play their way of football irrespective of the opponent.

“We are going to keep trying to play our game irrespective of the opponent. When we started working on the changing of mindset, football philosophy of India, we were aware that there will be many defeats and we can only learn through defeats.”

He also mentioned that the team has done a wonderful job in the last four and a half years and will continue doing so.

“We have done a great job in the last four and a half years and we know which way we are going and how we need to go. There will be defeats, wins and draws, but we are excited about our football and that’s the only way to bring football culture to each corner of India,” he added.

Gameplan against Syria

Igor Stimac spoke about his gameplan against Syria. He said that they are very similar to Uzbekistan and have many players coming from the top leagues.

“Syria is very similar to Uzbekistan with several experienced players coming from top divisions. They are a physical side playing in a classical 4-4-2. They have strong boys upfront, some nice good young talented players and you can see the way they move, keep their shape and how strong they are while coming forward.”

He also said that the challenge will not be less for India, but he has told his players what to do. 

“The challenge for us will not be less, but I always tell my boys that when you fight against physical sides, the best way to fight is to escape from duels and contacts with quick passing and movements. We just need to see how focused we are going to be and use our chances tomorrow. But, more importantly, we are going to strengthen our backline with more determination, focus and better decision-making regarding man-to-man marking,” he said.

Young forwards

Speaking about the lack of young Indian players playing as strikers for ISL clubs, Stimac said, “Each club has its own sports politics and that is not something I can enter. I can follow players and their form and select the best ones in my opinion. Since we entered this process, our skipper will tell you that the only value we are appreciating is how you are behaving both on and off the training pitch. 

He also added, “So, there is no reward and credit. Each new day is a new challenge and opportunity for everyone and that’s how we appreciate the players’ commitment. What is missing is the competitions for underage groups because when they reach the age of 18 and they are not part of an ISL team, they stand a good chance of moving away from football.”

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