Indian football team head coach Igor Stimac anticipates a packed Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata for the country's crucial World Cup qualification match against Kuwait on June 6. This match will also mark the final international appearance for legendary captain Sunil Chhetri.
Chhetri's 19-year international career will culminate in this match, where he will retire as India's all-time leading scorer with 94 goals. He will also leave the field as the most-capped player, having played in 151 matches.
A victory against Kuwait would significantly boost India's chances of reaching the third round of the World Cup qualifiers for the first time. "Considering the significance of the game, with us potentially a win away from qualifying for the third round and it being Sunil Chhetri's farewell game, we expect the Salt Lake Stadium to be packed," said Stimac.
"I am confident that our supporters will travel from all over India to Kolkata to support our team and bid farewell to Sunil. I am certain it will be an emotional occasion, and hopefully, we can celebrate together after the final whistle," he added.
The team has been training in Kolkata for two weeks, focusing on fitness and game tactics. "The players are progressing well. A long camp has proven beneficial in the past. We are working on both offensive and defensive aspects of the game," said Stimac.
"Our fitness levels are improving daily, and we are now focusing on tactics. From Monday onwards, we will work on positioning, set pieces, and transitions."
The Blue Tigers were initially scheduled to depart for Kolkata on June 2 but have moved their travel date to May 29 to acclimatize to the city's conditions. "It's hot and humid here, but we are enjoying every training session. The facilities and hospitality are excellent. However, we have decided to leave for Kolkata earlier to adjust to the humidity better and prepare for the crucial game," said Stimac.
Tags: #IndianFootball, #WorldCupQualifiers, #SunilChhetri, #IgorStimac, #SaltLakeStadium
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