'We need to play at a higher level...': India coach Igor Stimac after AFC Asian Cup exit

The Indian football team’s AFC Asian Cup campaign came to an end on a heart-breaking note. Playing in their final group-stage fixture against Syria on Tuesday, the Indian side had to concede a 1-0 defeat at the Al Bayt Stadium. The Blue Tigers had a horrendous outing at the AFC Asian Cup this time in Qatar as they bowed out without even registering a single point. Moreover, India failed to score a goal in the competition. Following the disappointing series of performances, India coach Igor Stimac shared an emotional post on social media platform X, formerly Twitter. In his social media post, Stimac admitted that the Indian team did not perform up to the level they were capable of. “I understand the fans’ frustration and disappointment. We feel the exact same way. The boys didn’t perform up to the level I know they are capable of, but I know they gave it their all and I’m proud of them. We need to play at a higher level consistently to be more comfortable,” read the post shared by the Croat on X. “And better prepared at these tournaments. Lots to think about and lots to work on. Thank you to all the fans back home and in Qatar. We feel the love and appreciate you all,” Stimac added.

…. and better prepared at these tournaments. Lots to think about and lots to work on.
Thank you to all the fans back home and in Qatar. We feel the love and appreciate you all 💙🙏🏻

— Igor Štimac (@stimac_igor) January 24, 2024

India required a victory against Syria to stay alive in the AFC Asian Cup but failed to pull off a convincing show in their final group-stage fixture on Tuesday. Syria’s Omar Khribin scored the solitary goal of the match in the 76th minute to earn three points for his side. In their tournament opener, India registered a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Australia. India came up with a solid defensive display in the first half. Despite keeping the Socceroos at bay throughout the entire first half, Stimac’s men failed to replicate the performance in the second half. India conceded two goals in the second half against Australia. In their next match, India went down to Uzbekistan 3-0. Abbosbek Fayzullayev, Igor Sergeev and Sherzod Nasrullaev scored for the Uzbek side. India finished their AFC Asian Cup journey at the bottom of the four-team Group B.