Football: Constantine pleads government to send them to Asian Games
What's the story
The Indian football team has continued to make grounds in the sport with coach Stephen Constantine leading the way. The Sunil Chhetri-led India have been impressive in the ongoing Intercontinental Cup. Till now, India have notched up two consecutive victories in the tournament. And now, Constantine has urged the Indian Government to send the team to the Asian Games on basis of their performances.
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Constantine has played a huge role in promoting youngsters
The Asian Games is an Under-23 event. This is Constantine's second stint with India and in both terms, he has played a pivotal role in promoting youngsters into the side. The current Indian team has many young guns, who all eligible to play in the Asian Games. The upcoming Asian Games will be held in Jakarta, Indonesia in August-September, 2018.
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Know what the head coach had to say
As per reports, Constantine has appealed to the Indian Government for sending the team to the Asian Games so that the players can get maximum exposure. He stated that the team needs more games and he has at least 11 players in the side, who are U-23. Keeping the AFC Asian Cup in mind, Constantine wants the players to get benefited with this participation.
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Football at the 2018 Asian Games
Football, at the 2018 Asian Games, is slated to be held from August 14 to September 1. Palembang is the host city and matches will also be played in Bekasi, Cibinong, Cikarang and Soreang. The Asian Games will see a total of 32 teams participating in this category. This is the largest number of entrants in the history of Asian Games.
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India need to play against quality opponents
The state of Indian football has improved vastly over the years since Constantine took charge and the team needs to play more games and that too against top quality sides. This hasn't been happening in recent past. The AIFF should take steps in this direction.