A bittersweet atmosphere hung over the Indian camp after their hard-fought 0-0 draw against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. While coach Igor Stimac lamented missed chances, especially from set-pieces due to a height disadvantage, he also saw a silver lining in the performance of young players.

Stimac acknowledged the absence of a strong aerial presence like Adil Khan, who impressed with his header against Bangladesh earlier in Kolkata.  This, according to the coach, played a part in India's inability to convert from dead-ball situations.

Despite the draw, Stimac highlighted the positives. "This match was tough," he admitted, "but we gave it our all. While the three points would have been ideal, we can learn from this and build for the future."  The focus, he emphasized, now shifts to their final group stage match against Qatar.  Stimac, along with goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who also attended the press conference, expressed their determination to bounce back and urged fans to maintain their unwavering support. 

However, the jubilation of a potential victory was dampened by the looming retirement of captain Sunil Chhetri. 

Former national team players, Robin Singh and Udanta Singh were visibly affected by both the draw and Chhetri's final international appearance, a moment that could have been a glorious send-off with a win.

Can India overcome their recent slump and end the campaign on a high note? Indian football fans will be watching with bated breath. 

Article & Pictures Credit: Google services and AIFF