Tough Chinese challenge for India's U-16 boys

The Indians had lost to Uzbekistan 2-3 in thier opening match before playing out a goal-less draw against Syria and they now need to beat China in their last Group D match if they want to remain in contention for a quarterfinal berth.

Even a win tomorrow for India may not be enough if Syria (two points from two matches) beat Uzbekistan (four points from two matches) in the other Group D fixture. China have two points while India are on just one pont.

Two top teams from each of the four groups qualify for the quarterfinals.

India coach Colm Joseph Toal said that his boys will have to play their best if they have to beat China tomorrow.

"China come into the match against us with two very good performances (draws against Syria and Uzbekistan). I have watched them play and they are a good team who have some very good individual players," Toal said.

"It will be a big test for us as it would be for any Indian Team against any Chinese team. I hope the boys have enough left in the tank and be able to raise their performance in the last Group League match," he added.

His Chinese counterpart Su Mozahen said, "Our goal is to qualify for the U-17 World Cup and play good football in the process. We are here with a purpose like all other Chinese teams in any sport."