AGENCIES, NEW DELHI: National Coach Stephen Constantine on Thursday announced his probable squad of 28 players for India’s forthcoming International Friendly against Puerto Rico, which is scheduled to be played at the Andheri Sports Complex in Mumbai on September 3.
This will be the first ever Official International match in Mumbai in 61 years since India last played USSR in 1955. This is also the first time ever that a Team from the CONCACAF region will be officially playing in India. Puerto Rico are placed 114 in the FIFA Rankings in comparison to India at 152.
“It’s a hugely important match for the people in Maharashtra that International Football is back in Mumbai after a long gap. Mumbai, as vibrant as ever, has been known for its Football culture and I hope the Indian fans will be turning up to support and cheer from the Stands. It’s important that we have a good crowd,” Constantine said.
“The buzz in Mumbai is something that the Team is looking forward to. Personally for me, all the cosmopolitan Cities of the Country should be ready to host the National team,” he added.
Constantine informed that all the players would be reporting to the Camp on August 28 with practice sessions beginning on August 29.
Commenting on Puerto Rico, the coach maintained that it would be an “extremely tough” match.
“Puerto Rico were the best movers in the FIFA Rankings in July 2016. I have been watching some of their matches and they boast about a lot of players who play in quality Leagues all over the World including Europe and the USA,” he stated.
“They are a Country similar to Guam. It’s an American colony and are a very good side. It will be a very tough game and we hope we can put up a good performance.”
