World Cup Qualifiers: India look to end campaign on a high against Turkmenistan

Stephen Constantine at the Press Conference before Turkmenistan clash alongside Jeje Lalpekhlua(left) and Udanta Singh(Right), Picture Courtesy: AIFF Media

Russia 2018 World Cup Preliminary Joint Qualification Round 2

Date: 29.03.2016

India vs Turkmenistan

Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, Kerala

Kick-off: 6 PM IST

Live Telecast: Sony Six

Stephen Constantine's men will be looking to end their World Cup Qualification campaign on a positive note when they gear up against visiting Turkmenistan on Tuesday, 29th March 2016 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kochi, Kerala. After receiving a second heavy defeat at the hands of the "Asian Giants" Iran away from home on 24th March, Team India will look to settle the scores against Turkmenistan, who handed the visiting Blue Tigers a 2-1 defeat.

Though India are already out of contention of progressing to the third round of World Cup Qualification, a victory for the Blue Tigers against the more fancier Turkmenistan will help them have a better chance of qualification for the 2019 Asian Cup.

Star striker Sunil Chhetri did not feature against Iran and still recovering from the injury. After looking at Chhetri in the practice sessions, Stephen Constantine opted to make the final call on his inclusion only before the match. Robin Singh and Eugeneson Lyngdoh are not in contention due to injuries.

Team India's practice session being monitored by a Drone,
Picture Courtesy: AIFF Media

Stephen Constantine spoke highly about Turkmenistan especially quoting about their gutsy effort to hold Iran and that too in an away fixture. "Turkmenistan are a very good side and stealing a point against Iran away is a statement of their abilities" said the Indian coach.

The gaffer further added, "As a Team we have learnt a lot in the Qualifiers. We played well against Oman, but the result did not sway in our favour. We cannot do something about where we are but can only keep our focus to the match at hand. And playing in India for India is motivation enough for the Players to perform."

Amangylyc Kocumow, the Turkmenistan Head Coach also praised the Blue Tigers squad. He said "India are a very good and fast team with very good Players. We are expecting a tough clash against them."

The Live Telecast of the Match will be on Sony Six from 6 PM IST onward.

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About Debraj Banerjee

Hi, I am Debraj Banerjee from Adra, West Bengal. A keen follower of Indian football and always an optimist that the game will get the recognition it truely deserves. What we ask from you is your support and one day the dream might turn true. Fingers crossed for Indian football. Cheers!

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