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India coach Stephen Constantine: Have to stay focused for Kyrgyzstan

Indian national team star striker Jeje Lakpekhlua celebrating his goal in India's 2-0 against Nepal. (Photo courtesy: AIFF Media)

Moments after the Indian National Team defeated Nepal 2-0, registering their seventh consecutive victory, Head Coach Stephen Constantine urged not to read too much into the win as the job is still far from complete for him and his men.

India will be clashing swords against Kyrgyz Republic on June 13, 2017 in Bengaluru in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers and speaking at the Official Post Match Press Conference Constantine after the win said, “The next test for us is against Kyrgyzstan, and it will be a different match with a different setting altogether. FIFA and AFC Qualifiers have a life of their own and we need to concentrate and stay focused on the next match.”

“Friendly games are very important for us to give Players a chance to get into the tune. We dominated but we missed some chances against Nepal and we progress with every game we play.”

“It is important for us to play friendly matches and today’s match was a much needed game. There are areas we can improve upon so we can perform better against Kyrgyzstan.”

“We will be quiet different next week (against Kyrgyzstan)”, Constantine added.

“My thoughts are already in the match against Kyrgyzstan however it is good to see the boys happy with a win. It is a process, we haven’t achieved anything yet but we need to work hard and eventually things will happen.”

Assessing the win against Nepal, Constantine informed, “Two goals won us the match so I am very happy that we scored and had bright spots in the game.”

Meanwhile, 19 year old Jerry Lalrinzuala who had made his India debut replacing Narayan Das in the 68th minute, sitting besides Constantine said, “Today I got the chance to represent my country and I want to thank my coach for giving me the chance.”

“I will work hard in practice and my next goal is to play in the starting XI and do my best for my country.”

Koji Gyotoku, Head Coach of Nepal had earlier said in the Official Post Match Press Conference that the, “Indian players are experienced and are very powerful and good (on the ball). They (India) are strong and they have a very good team.”

(AIFF Media)