India expect tough challenge against Kyrgyzstan: Constantine

The India national football team are basking in the glory of winning seven matches on a trot but coach Stephen Constantine isn't being complacent ahead of taking on the Kyrgyz Republic tomorrow in their first home match of the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 Qualifiers.

One being asked whether being placed 32 places above their opponents will give India a psychological advantage, National Coach Stephen Constantine stated, "I think the ranking comes for a particular reason. But, on the given day, you have to perform on the field. 32 above or below in the FIFA Ranking doesn't decide the result of a football match. Your hard work counts on the pitch."

"It'll be a battle of stamina tomorrow. We are very physical and we think we're strong enough to take them on. We're hard working team. They are a difficult side to break down," he said.

Although Constantine sounded confident about his boys, his respect for the opponents was clear as well, "They are an experienced side. They have quality and they have a great experience. As I heard, a lot of players ply their trade in Europe, which is a great sign of their calibre. I expect a very good fight from the. At the end of the day, it's going to be a tough challenge for us."

"All are available for selection and there's a tough competition for every position," he added.

Sunil Chhetri, who was rested against Nepal in the recently-played International Friendly in Mumbai, stated, "I was pretty happy to watch the Nepal game from the stands. Getting a clean sheet is very important and we have done it. A lot of boys were given chances and they executed it very well. We all are ready to give it a shot and I think, it's good for our coach as well.