“It’s really difficult for me to say something. I’m extremely proud of the boys,” the German Coach said as he ran out of words.
“Komal came to me and said coach can we still qualify? and I said to him that it doesn’t matter Komal, look at what you have done. You have created a moment, created emotions. These 4200 people will talk about this game. The people at stadium and the ones who watched on TV will talk about this game. That makes me extremely proud,” the gaffer added.
“Honestly, India still has a chance to qualify for the semis,” he said.
The Indian team led 2-1 until the 81st minute, and then conceded two quick goals that saw them trail 2-3 as the lads ran out of steam, but Suresh’s extra-time penalty earned the Blue’s the vital point and Nicolai admitted for the same.
“Today, to be honest we ran out of steam. Couple of boys got cramps. Normally they don’t. It’s due to the quality of Saudi as it’s a good team. We had a much better balance between offence and defence. Youth football is at times too hectic and too emotional but the boys have to learn that as the best team of the world come here next year,” he stressed.
On making the two substitutions, Nicolai explained that the changes had been done not for their performance but for precautionary measures.
“Aniket was close to second yellow card and Aman had an injury (meniscus problem), so we had to make the changes,” he explained.
India next take on Iran, on Wednesday, September 21 and the German coach revealed that the tie against Iran will not be an easy one.
“It will be extremely difficult task to win against Iran. But we will give whatever we have,” he added.
Sunday also saw around 4,200 spectators that created an electrifying atmosphere cheering the lads in Blue witnessed the high intensity match and the gaffer was surprised to witness it.
“India U-17 team got such a support and that was spectacular,” he concluded.
