India take on Bangladesh

Having begun their title defence with a lacklustre performance, India would look to make amends and stamp their authority when they square off against Bangladesh in their second group league match in the SAFF Football Championships on Tuesday. It was a disappointing show by the Indians in their campaign opener as they allowed Pakistan to dominate for major part of the match and needed an own goal from the rival skipper to come out unscathed.

Coach Wim Koevermas had minced no words in the post-match press conference, saying that he was not happy with the performance of his men and his side were lucky to have won the game. India though would start as favourites in Tuesday’s Group A match against Bangladesh who are 13 notches below at 158th. In the 22 meetings between the two teams, India have won 11 times while Bangladesh have won thrice.

For Koevermans, he believes that his boys will treat each and every game as a final. ‘It’s our second ‘final’ as we are here to play five ‘finals ‘ and defend our title. Bangladesh saw us play and will plan for us. They will come hard at us,’ he said.