UAE will be difficult side to beat: Sandesh

Abu Dhabi - Defender says Indian team confidence high after opening win

Sandesh Jhingan is the mainstay of Indian defence. He was instrumental in taming the Thai 'War Elephants' in the first match of the AFC Asian Cup. And now the Kerala Blasters captain is fully focused on the next opponent - the UAE.
"We did well against Thailand. We are keeping our feet on the ground. Hopefully we will continue to do well. But it will not be easy against the UAE team. They are the home team. They are physically tough. They have many good players. They are also experienced. The more you say, the less it is when you talk about the UAE," Jhingan said about the 'Whites'.
The defender said the way the 'Blue Tigers' played in the second half versus Thailand has shown that the players are ready for any team in the competition.
"We have passion and desire to win. We have many positives from the first match. The confidence in the team is very high."
Indians make the biggest expat population in the UAE and there will be no dearth of support for the away side at Zayed Sports City Stadium on Thursday.
Jhingan said they are enjoying the fan following and hope for bigger turnout against the UAE.
"It is good to see so many fans of the game. It is great motivation. We feel very lucky to have such passionate fans cheering for us. But the end it is a football match. I hope we can put a good show for everyone. We need to be mentally prepared for this one. Hopefully we will end on the winning side."
India face the UAE at Zayed Sports City Stadium on Thursday.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com