There is no better feeling than winning in your debut tournament: Nandhakumar Sekar

Indian forward Nandhakumar Sekar reckons there is no better feeling than winning in your debut tournament. Sekar made his national team debut in the Hero Intercontinental Cup, which the side went on to win by beating Lebanon.

The 27-year-old made his maiden appearance for the Blue Tigers against Vanuatu, which the team eventually won 1-0. Sekar impressed with his skills while playing for Odisha FC in ISL 2022-23 and played a key role in taking the team to their first-ever playoffs in the history of the tournament.

The 27-year-old scored six goals and provided one assist in the 20 matches he played for the Kalinga Warriors in ISL 2022-23 and thus impressed with his skills.

Furthermore, he played an instrumental role in taking Odisha FC to Hero Super Cup glory.

“First of all, I felt extremely happy to be a part of the India senior team. I got to make my international debut in the Hero Intercontinental Cup. I did not expect it, so I felt very happy,” Nandhakumar shared in an interaction with DT Next.

Sekar gave credit to head coach Igor Stimac for making things clear for him before his debut.

He said: “The day before the match, I was told that I would make my debut. I was nervous when I was informed about it. Stimac spoke to me personally and steadied my nerves. ‘Enjoy the moment. I want you to play this way in our structure. I want you to play in this style. Just go out there and express yourself,’ Stimac told me.”

The Tamil Nadu-born footballer gave gratitude to the head coach and his teammates for helping him on and off the field.

“The coach gave me the freedom and it was really helpful. On the pitch, my teammates helped me, so it was easy to combine with them. I was able to show my game,” the forward added.

The rising young star added he has enjoyed his time with the national team and was delighted to win the first two tournaments with the side.

“I enjoyed every moment when I was with the national team. There are a lot of differences between club and international football. In the Indian team, there are players who have a lot of experience. I have played against senior players [at the club level]. When I combined with Sunil (Chhetri) bhai and Sandesh Jhingan… I learnt a lot from them – the character I should have while playing for India, how to adapt to the changes in a match,” he stated.

“I won the Hero Super Cup with Odisha FC. I then won the Hero Intercontinental Cup and SAFF Championship with India. What more can I ask for? There is no better feeling than winning the tournament in which you made your debut,” added Nandhakumar.

Nandhakumar Sekar has signed a three-year contract with East Bengal FC.