We need to handle the pressure: Savio


By Upender Singh,
AIFF Media Team

KATHMANDU: National Coach Savio Medeira stays unperturbed before India’s AFC Challenge Cup opener against Takjikistan. In a freewheeling interview with www.the-aiff.com, Savio spoke at length about his team’s strategies, combination and a lot more.EXCERPTS:

How’s the preparation been for the Tajikistan match?

After the winning SAFF Championship many boys have been struggling with injuries. It found it difficult for us to field our first team in the two International Friendlies we played. But now all of them have recovered. We have a full-strength side at our disposal. We came here a bit early which helped us to acclimatise to the conditions. We are fully prepared for sure.

You have experimented a bit in the International Friendlies. What would your combination be against Tajikistan?

Tajikistan are strong opponents. But at the same time most of our seniors would be back in the squad. Their experience would be of great help. The starting XI would be a combination of youth and experience.

Any player who stays doubtful for the first match?

Midfielder Lalrindika Rlate stays a bit suspect. He is suffering from a niggle and we haven’t taken a decision as yet. The rest of the squad are all available and raring to go.

Keeping the opposition in mind, which department needs an improvement?

We need to stay alert in all the departments, especially defence. Tajikistan have a very potent forward line and striker Yusuf Rabiev is a dangerous poacher.

Whatever we have learnt our preparation, we need to take it forward. We need to play as cohesive unit and learn to handle the pressure.

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