As the Blue Tigers prepare in Doha for their forthcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Qualifiers. National team head coach Igor Stimac spoke about the motivation in the camp, the support from the Qatar football association, and many more.
Gratitude to Qatar FA
Speaking on the current pandemic situation and the hurdles faced by the footballing community all around the world, Stimac said, “These are difficult times, and there are a number of safety regulations that have been put in place, which we are working around”.
He thinks the cooperation provided by the Qatar Football Association is a great show of support. “I would like to extend a big thank you to the Qatari Government for allowing us to train in Doha under such circumstances, and the Qatar FA for hosting us in such difficult times,” Stimac averred.
Great facilities at Doha
Stimac also highlighted the facilities arranged at the preparatory camp in Doha. The gaffer told, “Qatar is the future hosts of the FIFA World Cup 2022 and we are aware that they have some great facilities here for the football teams”.
India is scheduled to play Asian Champions Qatar on June 3, Bangladesh on June 7, and Afghanistan on June 15 with all three matches to be played at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, Doha.
Blue Tigers are well motivated
Stimac believes the current situation all around is the motivation for his boys to perform well on the pitch. “We do not have to do anything extra to motivate them,” Stimac informed. He further said, “they are all very good professionals and I don’t have any problem in lifting their spirits”.
Igor thinks, “they are well aware of the situation and have shown full commitment on the training ground. I can assure you that they will do everything possible to do well on the pitch.”
Opportunity to bring back smile
The coach further went on to say that the difficult situation that India is currently facing due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has made the Blue Tigers more resolute in their endeavors. As he shared, “they are very much aware of what’s happening in India. So many families are suffering right now”.
Stimac seemed quite confident, “we have a chance to make the people of India happy with our performance. We need to take this opportunity and bring back a few smiles to the people’s faces” as he signed off.
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Also Read:
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- India vs Afghanistan: 5 Talking Point from the Match
- Shanmugam Venkatesh: Igor Stimac’s heart beats for Indian football
