India's chief football coach Wim Koevermans said the 0-3 loss to Tajikistan "would help India in the SAFF Championship".
"We did our best but Tajikistan were a much superior side. We have learnt a lot from this match. Tajikistan had a much higher tempo," he stated at the post-match press Conference.
"I reiterate it's important to play International Friendlies. We need to develop," he added.
"Tajikistan were quick and fast. They made it difficult for our boys," he said after India's 0-3 loss to Tajikistan in the International Friendly in Khujand. "Tajikistan, we knew from the FIFA Rankings were of much higher level."
"We had our players for five days as it's the pre-season and they haven't played for long. We move to the Preparatory Camp in Bangalore for the SAFF Championship."
The Indian squad lands in Bangalore Friday and will begin training from next day.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app