Concentration lapse cost us: India coach ›

The boys were too excited after scoring and that was why we conceded a second time LUIS DE MATOS, India U-17 coach

NEW DELHI : India came agonisingly close to securing their first point in the FIFA U-17 World Cup, but a late Juan Penaloza goal helped Colombia win the Group A game on Monday.

The hosts showed great determination and India’s Portuguese coach Luis Norton De Matos believes the performance was a testament to the team’s improvement.

“A few months ago, it was impossible for us to even imagine we can compete against such strong Latin American teams. But, we proved today we can play at this level and I am proud of the commitment the players showed on the pitch,” Matos told the post-match press conference.

“Both Colombia and USA coaches said we were a difficult opponent for them and that is a testimony to how much we have improved as a team.”

It appeared India were headed for a draw when Jeakson Singh headed in off a corner, but the joy was short lived as Penaloza slammed the winner within a minute.

“The boys were too excited after scoring the goal and that lapse of concentration was why we conceded a second time. The boys are not accustomed to performing at such a big level. It’s a pity we let the game slip away,” de Matos said.

Colombia coach Orlando Restrepo lauded India’s performance on Monday and said the hosts should be proud of their fighting spirit.