GUWAHATI: As the Indian National team squad started assembling in Guwahati for India’s preliminary joint qualification round one match against Nepal for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia, National coach Stephen Constantine in a media interaction, on Wednesday stressed on the ‘love for football in the region.’
“There’s a specific reason why I have come to Guwahati to play against Nepal. It’s because of the crowd,” Constantine elaborated in a packed media gathering in the largest cosmopolitan city of the region.
“People love their football here. We look forward to having a packed stadium on the 12th against Nepal. I expect all football lovers to make as much noise as possible and get behind the players. It’s a very important match for us.”
India first play Nepal on March 12, and then travel to Nepal for the away match on March 17.
Meanwhile, referring to a question, Constantine declared the team has “no Captain” at the moment.
“It doesn’t make a difference. We need to first have a look at the players. The captain has to reflect the personality of the coach and will be of my choice,” he emphasised.
The team will be having their first practice session at the Indian Gandhi Athletics Stadium in Sajusarai on Thursday.
