FIFA U-17 WC Indian U-17 ready to 'fight for survival' against Ghana

After a gallant display against Colombia, the Indian U-17 national team, which won hearts all over, gear up to face Ghana in their third Group A stage match of the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 here at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium tomorrow.

Technically, the Indian colts could still qualify for the next stage of the U-17 World Cup, given a win against Ghana and courtesy other results going their favour.

With ambition running high in the squad, the colts are aiming for nothing less than a win that would eventually propel them into contention of progression.

"We will go for nothing less than a win. We have shown the world that we belong on the same page as them and now we want to show that we can win against them," said Luis Norton de Matos, Head Coach, Indian U-17 World Cup Team.

"Ghana will be a physical as well as a mental challenge for us. They (Ghana) are a strong physical team who are quick on the ball. We would have to be on our toes for the entirety of the match, if we are to secure a win," he added.

"However, the boys are ready for the challenge that will be thrown in front of them. We will give it our all and aim to create history once again."

Jeakson Singh created history against Colombia when he became the first Indian goal-scorer in the FIFA U-17 World Cup -- his bullet header left the Colombia custodian stunned and crashed into the back of the net.

The midfielder, informs that they team is raring to go against Ghana. "They are a very strong side. But we are ready and prepared. It will be a physically taxing battle against Ghana but I reiterate, we are ready," he pronounced.

Skipper Amarjit Singh added, "We have the utmost respect for our opponents but we will give them a very tough fight, even tougher than we gave Colombia. It is a matter of survival and we will do anything to go into the next round."

The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium has been a mecca for Indian football fans ever since the FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 kicked-off and the fans have cheered the young colts through every second of the matches. Thanking the fans for their support, Sanjeev Stalin said,"We play for the fans, they are our everything and we thank them for the wonderful support that they have given us."

Goalkeeper Dheeraj Singh calls for even more support against Ghana. "Against Ghana we will need a lot of support. We will give it our very best on the pitch. I expect all to be cheering for us like they have done for us. We won't disappoint them. Come and back the blue," he stated. 

-ANI