‘Bangladesh haven’t come here to lose’

India coach Igor Stimac said that he would not underestimate Bangladesh in tomorrow’s 2022 World Cup Qualifier match against India.

“I would not like anyone of you to underestimate Bangladesh team. The result is not good when you don’t show respect to others,” he said during a press conference today.

Bangladesh played well against Qatar in their last game and the India coach said that the men in Red and Green had enough chances to win against Qatar.

“Bangladesh team have proved themselves in defeat also, especially in the match against Qatar. They could have won against Qatar given the chances they created. They have also expectation, they also have a dream. They haven’t come here to lose the match, they have come here to win it. Don’t provoke in this manner” he continued.

Jamie Day’s charges will have to hurdle two challenges, the fast-improving India and its huge Kolkata support, in order to get one over India, who are now 85 places ahead of Bangaldesh in the FIFA Rankings.  The India coach reiterated that Bangladesh are an organised side under Jamie and the India team needed the crowd's support and nothing can be taken for granted.

“They stand together for last 14 /15 months under new coach. They worked six to seven days before their last game. They are very organised side at the moment. They are much disciplined. They enjoyed the success in U-23 AFC tournament and they have many talented players like we do. They will have lot of passion in the match, So please keep calm and support us as you are. But, don’t make it adverse for us. Don’t make it harder for us. Let play the game with great respect to Bangladesh,” he concluded on the matter.