Dear colleagues,
Please find below a preview report of India’s clash against Sri Lanka tomorrow and an interview with Indian Goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan. *We request you to follow AIFF Twitter Handle @AIFFMedia for regular updates.* Regards, AIFF Media Team ------------ *WOMEN GEAR UP FOR ‘MUST WIN FIXTURE’* *AIFF Media Team* *NEW DELHI: *After a goalless draw in their first match against Maldives in the South Asian Games, the Indian Women’s Senior National Team will clash swords against Sri Lanka on February 09(Tuesday) is what is a ‘must win fixture’ for the Women. The kick-off is slated for IST 4PM. Albeit the Indian contingent were dominant in both possession and shots on goal in their opening clash against Maldives, the Women paid heavily when they were not able to convert on their chances. Talking exclusively to www.the-aiff.com, Head Coach of the Indian Women’s Senior National Team Sajid Dar, dubbed the fixture against Sri Lanka as a “must win one.” “It is a must win match for us, as three points will relieve a lot of pressure. The squad showcased attacking Football in our first match against Maldives and we have worked on converting our chances in the training sessions for a better result against Sri Lanka.” India had defeated Sri Lanka 4-0 last time around in the Olympic Qualifiers Preliminaries Round 1 in Mandalay, Myanmar, courtesy strikes from Ashalata Devi, Kamala Devi, Radharani and an own goal by Malisha Nilini. However, Sajid believes that Sri Lanka are the “dark horses” of this Championship as they Sri Lanka have evolved in their style of play over the last couple of year. “We have to be cautious of our opponents as they possess the necessary means which can harm us. At the same time, we will play for a win and give our best on the field,” he stated. It was a sombre mood in the Indian Senior Women’s National Team squad after the Indian eves had drawn their opening clash against Maldives. So much was India’s domination that Goalkeeper Aditi Chauhan was reduced to a mere spectator all throughout in the match. You mention this to the legendary Bembem Devi and she immediately quips, “Had we took our chances, we would’ve scored many goals, let alone win the match.” “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.” Reflecting on Sri Lanka, Bembem Devi opined that the “fixture will not be easy at all and we have to stay on our toes.” “We also have a point to prove that we are still the best in the South-Asian region and nothing except a win will do tomorrow.” *----* *WOMEN’S FOOTBALL IS THE NEW TREND: ADITI CHAUHAN* *AIFF Media Team* *NEW DELHI:* Aditi Chauhan has carved a niche for herself in the annals of Indian Women’s Football history through hardwork, passion and desire. Perhaps the tag of ‘the first Indian Woman to play in competitive Women’s Football in England’ has intensified the fire inside her, even more. In a free-wheeling interview with www.the-aiff.com, the former West Ham Ladies Goalkeeper talks at length about the change in Women’s Football in India, the young Players in the side, India’s next match against Sri Lanka and a lot more. *EXCERPTS:* *How much has the Indian Women’s squad changed in the recent years?* There has been an influx of youth in the Indian squad and that is a very positive sign. The average age of our current squad in just below 24 and that speaks volumes in itself. The future is safe as it lies on the young Players who are getting maximum exposure now and that is very reassuring. *What is your outlook on Women’s Football in India?* Women’s Football is the new trend in India and it certainly is on an upward surge. It is heartening to see young girls passionately indulged in the ‘Beautiful Game.’ I met a young girl in the opening ceremony of the 12th South Asian Games and she was excited to meet me and the Indian Women. She clicked pictures with us and it is heartening to see such young girls live their goals. Situations like these are explains of better days to come. *How do you assess the young Indian Goalkeepers in the squad?* The youngsters have displayed dedication and impressed in the practice sessions so far. Every Player improves with every given day and they have the potential to improve with experience. *You were hugging the half-way line in a Neuer-esque way against Maldives. Was it a sign of desperation for action?* It was nothing but desperation and urgency for a goal. We would’ve won the match had we took our chances in front of goal. However, results are part and parcel of Football and you have to acknowledge them, improve and look forward to the next challenge. *How do you reflect on Sri Lanka as opponents?* Sri Lanka are tough opponents and we respect them. We will be going out for a win and give our cent percent to grab all three points. *Tell us about your stint at West Ham Ladies.* The standard of Football was very high and it evolved me into a better Player. The support that I got from the Club was incredible in context to my growth. The stint made me into a better overall Goalkeeper. *How relieving was it to don the Indian Colours after a long time?* The feeling when you wear the National Colours at any time of your career -- be it your first match or your hundredth, is unparalleled. It is a statement that you are one of the best Football Players in your Country and that feeling is not only relieving, but more or less euphoric. Regards, AIFF Media Team ----------- EOM Media Department, AIFF. Alternate: [email protected] Website: www.the-aiff.com
