BY CHARLES D'SOUZA
MARGAO
Former India coach Armando Colaco wished the India Under 16 team success as they head into a must-win match against Iran in their bid to make it to the knockout stage of the AFC U-16 championships, Wednesday.
“I have been keenly following India matches. I convey my best wishes and hope our boys give their best shot against Iran,” Colaco said.
Arjuna Awardee and former India goalkeeper Brahmanand Shankhwalkar congratulated the Indian colts for their performance so far in the tournament.“Keep up the good show in the AFC Championship. Our best wishes stay with you. Go and win the match against Iran," said the former India goalkeeper.
"As a player you obviously feel sad when results don’t go your way. But that’s the beauty of football -- it never fails to surprise," he added. Reflecting on Iran, Mauricio Afonso, former India captain and present Dempo SC head coach, opined that the “fixture will not be easy at all" . "The junior team has to play sharp and look out for opportunities. It is a must win match for us, as three points will relieve a lot of pressure. The squad showcased attacking football in the first match against UAE and Saudi Arabia. We also have a point to prove that we are capable of beating any team on a given day and nothing except a win will do tomorrow,” Afonso added.
“We need to be there to back them. Undoubtedly, it's going to be an exciting match and a full house will give the boys added motivation,” said Afonso, adding: "Every day starts afresh. No team is unbeatable. If the boys play to their potential they can have the last laugh,” he stated.
Alvito D' Cunha, former India midfielder while wishing the Indian Under 16 football team, good luck said: "Keep up the good show and my wishes stay with you. You made us proud in the last two matches against higher ranked FIFA teams. Go and express yourselves and it will be a proud moment for every Indian if we win the match against Iran in front of home crowd,” said D'Cunha.
Joe Dias, vice president of Salcete Football Club, said, “We have been following their matches. Our best wishes stay with them. Go and make India proud,” Dias said.
Alex Dias coach of Curtorim Gymkhana under 20 football team said: “Go and express yourselves. Our best wishes with the team.”
