Dubai, Feb 24 (IANS) India’s football coach Savio Medeira blamed lapses in defence for the 1-5 trouncing in the Oman friendly in Muscat Thursday.
The Indian squad reached Dubai Friday for the preparatory camp for the AFC Challenge Cup. India will play another friendly against Azerbaijan Monday.
‘There were defensive lapses in the game and we have to correct our mistakes. The back four which played together for the first time and it is understandable they will take some to get that combination right between themselves,’ said Medeira.
Medeira said that goals in quick succession upset the rhythm of his young players, many of whom playing for the national side for the first time.
‘We conceded two goals within three minutes and that upset our rhythm. Some of the boys made their debut and it took them some time to get started. Midway into the first half, the boys settled down and started combining well. But the start spoiled it for us.’
India ranked 154 in FIFA rankings will again have their hands full when they take on Azerbaijan (109), a side ranked much higher than them. Medeira said that his intention was to try as many players as possible against tougher opponents.
‘I had agreed to play two international friendlies knowing that both the teams would be tough opponents and stronger than us. The intention is to try out as many players in these two International Friendlies,’ said the Indian coach.