As expected,Asia’s powerhouse Iran blanked Nepal 4-0 in the opener of the Under-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers in Dushanbe,Tajikistan Monday.
The convincing win registered by Iran was not a surprise.They were overwhelming favorites against Nepal and lived up to expectations eventually.
Iran’s victory was never in doubt. Obviously it was never going to be easy for Nepal.Prior to the match,the bigger question was:how well could they play against the formidable opponent?They did have a fighting chance but needed a solid performance in order to give them a run for their money.
Head Coach Bal Gopal Maharjan boys displayed dogged resilience and stubborn defense in the first half to keep the slate clean.They played reasonably well and kept the cohesive and dangerous offense at bay.Of course,they had a slice of luck after the opponent failed to convert a spot kick.
The second half was a different story as Iran took total control of the proceedings.Once they got on the board, the floodgates opened.They went on a goal scoring spree,thus ending Nepal’s challenge.
The Nepali defense literally caved in under intense pressure from the opposition.They were punished for unforced errors and sloppy defending.
Since the game was played in Nepal’s half for the most part,the offense was hamstrung and restricted to sporadic attacks.At the end of the day,they lost to a technically superior and well organized opponent that dominated every department of the game.
In the second match, Nepal is up against a tricky and physically strong Tajikistan who were victorious against Lebanon in their opening match.
Tajikistan,the host country, might have won by a solitary goal, but they were dominant in their performance throughout the match.They played intelligent,skilful and attacking football.Undoubtedly, they are a hard nut to crack..
Also they are a physical side with plenty of pace, aggression and energy.To add, they have home -field advantages,and I bet they are focused on exploiting Nepal’s vulnerabilities and in the process will leave no stone unturned.
It is very important that they regroup,focus,overcome defeat and come back stronger.Moving to the next match,the sole goal must be to bounce back and make their presence felt in a big way,
That will require a positive mindset,renewed motivation,confidence and determination,coupled with a vastly improved performance.The fixture against the home side presents them the chance to make amends after a disappointing start.
Coach Maharjan must address,correct the shortcomings of his side in the best possible manner. Besides, he has to lift the spirit and morale of the team.
Unlike the opening match,the coach has to adopt a slightly more offense oriented strategy to give themselves a chance and ease off pressure on the defense.
Team Nepal must step up collectively and individually. Furthermore, they have to significantly improve technically,offensively and defensively.
As a team they have to play to their strengths and potential.It is high time every member of the team displays a selfless approach and willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team achieve success.
-By Sushil Thapa,Fairfax,VA
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