Confident India gear up for Iran in AFC U-16 qualifiers

After starting their campaign with a thumping victory, a confident Indian side will next take on hosts Iran in their second match of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) U-16 qualifiers on Friday.

The Indians dominated Bahrain in their first match on Wednesday, claiming a well deserved 5-0 win.

India U-16 head coach Nicolai Adam believes that the match against Iran will be a tougher test for his team, adding that it is important for the boys to know where they stand and how good they are.

Speaking about India's superb performance in the opener, the coach said: "Yeah, the manner in which they performed was encouraging indeed. But I have told the boys to stay focused. 5-0 was a good <g data-gr-id="23">result</g> but we have played against stronger teams in Germany during our exposure tour. But Iran will be really strong."

Adam believes that Iran will be tough opponents and his boys must put up an even better performance to outclass the hosts.

"Iran will be a real test for us and we are all looking forward to it. It's important for the boys to know where they stand and how good they are," he was quoted as saying in a statement by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Thursday.

Keeping in mind the U-17 World Cup in India next year, the coach wants his team to perform better and know where they actually stand.