Indian national coach Wim Koevermans complimented his boys for the manner they defended against Pakistan, but wasn’t fully happy with the chances given to Pakistan.
Koevermans speaking at the post-match official Press Conference said, “We defended really well. There was always a man or a leg or a body in between.”
India rode on an own goal from Samar Ishaq to beat Pakistan one-nil and make a winning start to the 2013 SAFF Championship at the Dashrath Stadium in Kathmandu on Sunday, September 1.
“At the same time we also created a lot of chances. Sunil (Chhetri) could have scored three or four. He himself knows it. But that’s Football. A result in such a match is important. Let’s not forget this is a Tournament and go into the next match with three points. We play every alternate day and it’s important everyone stays away from injuries.”
“I’m not happy with the performance. We gave the ball away a bit too easily in the first half and that helped them to create some chances,” Koevermans added. “Subrata Pal was in outstanding form. And Nabi was outstanding. He took his marker off the game.”
Nabi had come in as a replacement for Mohanraj Nallappan in the 63rd minute and added, “Mohanraj is a new player and is learning every day.”
“Jewel (Raja) who also came in as a replacement did his job,” the Coach also said.
India next play Bangladesh on Tuesday, September 3.
(Report courtesy AIFF Media)
