Tougher games are the only way
If India are to improve, they need to play more friendlies against higher ranked opposition, which means playing more games on designated FIFA dates.
That’s according to Indian centre back Nirmil Chettri, who feels that in addition to bettering the sides ranking.The friendly against Tajikistan on August 14th, will also be perfect preparation for the Upcoming SAFF Championships.
Speaking to Goal India, Chettri said: “Yes, they (Tajikistan) are ranked higher than us but we are going with a positive mindset and I hope something good will come out.
“After a long time we are getting to play a friendly match. It’s good it’s played on a FIFA date. It will be a tough match for us. We have not played for quite a long time.
“For getting our rankings higher, we need to play more friendly matches on FIFA stipulated dates. When you play matches on FIFA dates it will help us go up higher in rankings. When you get to play against good teams you can get better.
“I hope it will help us prepare well for the SAFF Cup.”
In the latest FIFA World Rankings India have risen from 146th to 145th, bizarrely despite not having played since March India have risen in the world ranks for each of the last three months.