Hero Tri-Nation tourney: Host India to take on Kyrgyz Republic in last match today

Imphal: The stage has been set for the third and last game of the weeklong Hero Tri-Nation International Football Tournament between the host India and Kyrgyz Republic for the trophy here at Khuman Lampak main stadium on March 28 at 6 pm.

In the opening match of the Tri-Nation Football Tourney, the Indian team won against Myanmar by a solitary goal on March 22.

In the second match of the tournament, Myanmar and Kyrgyz Republic had to split points after the match ended in a 1-1 draw on March 25.

Now the Central Asian team is compelled to win their last game against India to claim the winning trophy unlike a draw for the hosts.

To make a difference in tomorrow’s match, Kyrgyz Republic head coach Alexander Krestinin while responding to questions during the pre-match press conference here, said that they will make some changes in the team to play a different game.

The Kyrgyz Republic coach Alexander however expressed disappointment over their first match against Myanmar. Kyrgyz Republic national team midfielder Alimardon Shukurov accompanied by their team manager were also present during the pre-match press conference.

On the other hand, Indian team head coach Igor Stimac speaking to reporters said they will go out to win the game.

“So we’re playing at home. We can have a full house-our supporters behind us. So we don’t get another option and we’ve a chance to prove ourselves,” Stimac said.

“I was right when I said Myanmar is a serious side that can hurt you. We saw that against the Kyrgyz Republic. It will, of course, be a different challenge against the Kyrgyz side because they don’t have any option but to come out and win,” said Stimac, who expects an attacking contest from both sides tomorrow.

Indian team Goalkeeper Amrinder Singh accompanied Stimac in the press conference and said that he always tries to do his best whenever he gets the chance. Stimac also informed that he had a lot of confidence in Amrinder.

Meanwhile, terming the support provided by the state in hosting the tournament as magnificent, he said, “I appreciate the chief minister and all those people who are working hard for it.”