We are working on set-pieces and on certain aspects of our attack and defense: Igor Stimac before AFC Asian Cup qualifiers

India’s football head coach Igor Stimac has revealed that his team is fine-tuning their skills on set-pieces and on certain aspects of their attack and defense before the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. India recently suffered a 0-2 loss against Jordan in a Friendly contest and they will look to bounce back stronger.

India is in Group D of the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, with teams like Hong Kong, Afghanistan, and Cambodia. All of the matches will take place at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata and India will have crowd support. Thus, the home side will favorite in their group and they will aim to bring their best to the pitch.

“It’s the final week and there are a few things we are working on — putting in the final touches. We are working on set-pieces and on certain aspects of our attack and defence. Obviously, there are different aspects to each of these. There are certain issues, especially with niggling injuries to some players, but we are dealing with them as best we can,” said Igor Stimac, as reported by the-aiff.com.

Meanwhile, the Croatian feels Afghanistan can be a threat to them as they have players who play in foreign leagues and have a good experience. Furthermore, India’s head coach reckons Afghanistan players are more strong physically.

“Afghanistan is the one that comes first to mind. More so because physically, they are much stronger. They have so many players from foreign leagues that have well-organized football throughout the year. While these players are playing in quality leagues abroad, we are trying to build that same here, which will take time. That’s why I consider them as one of the major opponents,” added the head coach.

The Blue Tigers will begin their campaign against Cambodia on June 8 at the Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata.