India head coach Igor Stimac is satisfied with the winning start to their Intercontinental Cup campaign but rued missed chances, saying they could have scored more goals in their 2-0 win over Mongolia.
Up against an unknown entity, India wasted no time in taking the lead with Sahal Abdul Samad opening the tally in the second minute before Lallianzuala Chhangte scored in the 14th, here on Friday.
“We’re overall happy with our performance. We did everything we sought — a clean sheet and a victory,” Stimac said in the post-match media interaction.
“The boys enjoyed their time on the pitch, passing the ball, creating chances, and scoring goals.
“I feel a bit sorry that there were no more goals because there were enough chances to do that,” said Stimac.
India are looking to regain the title they last won in 2018. “I hope our hard work pays off,” he said.
New U-23 coach
A new coach will take charge of the Indian team for the AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers in September but Stimac will be at the helm during the upcoming Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. Football is an under-23 event at the Asian Games.
“We are appointing a new under-23 team coach who will also assist Stimac during the Asian Games. He will be an Indian,” AIFF secretary general Shaji Prabhakaran said.
