MARGAO
President of Goa Football Association, Dr Caitano Fernandes, vice-president Anthony Pango, technical committee member Climax Lawrence and former general secretary of All India Football Federation Alberto Colaco cheered on the Indian men's football team in their SAFF Championship final against Kuwait at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium.
The Blue Tigers defeated Kuwait in an intense game that ended with a penalty shootout to lift the trophy for the ninth time. The Indian football team has seen significant improvements in recent times, claiming the Intercontinental Cup with a win over strong opponents Lebanon and now the SAFF Cup.
"Overjoyed by the splendid performance. Hats off to Sunil Chhetri for leading the team from the front. What a fine example he is to everyone, both young and aged footballers, regarding his fitness lasting the entire 120 minutes of the match," said Lector Mascarenhas, former India midfielder.
"Kuwait did play well but India fought hard to get the equalizer. We need penetrating strikers with good physicality, a little taller than what we have. You remove Sunil Chhetri and our attack is over. Liston Colaco was not tried. Maybe he could have helped Sunil in the attack."
"We are on a winning streak and it's good for Indian football. I congratulate our Goan coach Mahesh Gawli (the team's assistant coach) on this win," said Walter Pereira, FIFA referee assessor and former FIFA assistant referee. "It's a double treat for the Goans as Clifford Miranda received the Best Coach Award from the AIFF."
Norberto Gonsalves, former State coach, congratulated the Indian team for the victory. “SAFFChampions! What a special moment! Congratulations Blue Tigers on your triumph," Gonsalves said.
