Kolkata: India would adopt a positive approach when they take on a strong Saudi Arabian team in the August 16 AFC Asian Cup qualifier in Kolkata and new coach Bob Houghton was preparing the team with a win in mind.
"Can we win? You have chances in every game. We are preparing with a win in our mind," Houghton said, while admitting that it would be a tough ask for the hosts, placed way below the Saudis in the rankings.
While Saudi Arabia is ranked seventh in Asia, India occupies the 26th slot.
"They will bring several players who've done duty in the recent World Cup. They have raw power. I'm afraid, we will be out-physiqued," said Houghton.
"But we're taking the match positively. If we play with the mindset of not wanting to concede many goals, that will be a negative approach, which I don't like. Against the Saudis, we'll try to push the ball quickly into the opponent half, and put pressure on them," he said.
Houghton said the team played positively during the Vancouver trip and due to which it won the last two matches.
"But I must say that the quality of opposition was a lot inferior there, compared to what we will be up against when we take on the Saudis."
However, the coach said that the 11-day camp, which began on Saturday, was sufficient to prepare for the match.
On Jo Paul Ancheri's recall, Houghton said he looked a very good player, but also one who hadn't played for a while.
"He is strong, but is struggling with his fitness. I can't say whether he will play against Saudi Arabia, but if he gets back match fitness, he can be useful in the long term."
Comments
0 comment