India captain urges fans to come out in force for clash with UAE
India’s footballers have encouraged their compatriots in the UAE to come out in force to back their team’s bid to make the Asian Cup knockout stages, after an unexpected win in their first game.
India sealed a 4-1 victory over Thailand on Sunday – the first time their national team has won a match in the competition since 1964.
There are more than three million Indians living in the UAE, making them by far the largest national group in the country.
But despite the large population, there were plenty of empty seats at Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi when India got their campaign off to an impressive start.
Indian captain Sunil Chhetri scored twice against Thailand and urged supporters to turn up in greater numbers when India face the hosts tomorrow.
Indians are the largest national group in the UAE, with three million living in the country
“Let me tell you this, it would not have been possible without your support and encouragement,” said Chhetri, 34, in a direct address to fans. “It means so much to me and the whole team, the way you have supported us all the way.
“The Asian Cup, it cannot get bigger than this for us. We will give everything we have and we need your support. I just hope that you come in numbers. Let’s do this together.”
India’s match against the UAE, who drew with Bahrain in the opening game, will be followed by their final group stage match, against Bahrain on Monday.
Cricket remains by far the most popular sport in India, but football’s profile has risen in recent years.
Chhetri described last year as “really good for Indian football”.
India manager Stephen Constantine said his players are focused on reaching the next phase.
“We still need another two points to qualify,” Constantine said after the win over Thailand.
“After we have qualified, we can get a little bit excited, but our primary job is still to qualify out of the group.”