Football: India Under-19's performances need to be lauded
The Indian U-19 football team, under coach Floyd Pinto, may have suffered defeats along the road in their Four-Nation Tour 2018, but their performances need to be praised. Playing against European U-19 big guns such as France, Croatia and Slovenia is no small feat and the Indian team has put up a brave face against these nations. Here is more on the same.
Despite three defeats, India U-19 side stood strong
India faced three successive defeats in the tourney, but the exposure against these big sides will help them grow. The likes of France and Croatia's U-19 teams are one of the best in the world. India lost 0-1 against Slovenia and 0-2 in their encounter against France. The scorelines suggest that the side isn't far away from doing wonders.
India U-19 have put in the hard work
Last month, the win against Argentina U-20 side was a mammoth one for the Indian team. The win made headlines in several parts of the world. Then there was a goalless draw against Venezuela in Spain as well. Therefore if one sees the results, the hard work can be noticed. India U-19 side need to continue in the same vein.
Majority of these players will play in I-League
Majority of these U-19 players will be plying their trade in the I-League. This will be further help the players to learn the tricks of the trade. Moreover Indian senior team coach Stephen Constantine is a fan of Indian youth and has given many youngsters the chance to impress. With the U-19 team bringing in such show, the future looks promising for Indian football.
India U-19 to play against Serbia next
The Indian U-19 national team will be up against their Serbian counterparts next in a two-match friendly on September 13 and September 17 respectively. The idea will be to derive maximum from the tour and develop the game further.
