Kathmandu, Sep 6 (FN Agency) Indian camp is agog to meet its arch rivals when the senior Indian women will face Pakistan is in the opener of the SAFF Championship here on Wednesday. “ Our first match against Pakistan will be a crucial one. We want to give our best. It will be a high-intensity match for sure. They have a new team. But we fear none,” India captain Ashalata Devi said on the eve of the game. Ashalata Devi, who had also faced Pakistan in the SAFF Women’s Championship in 2014 recalled her memories. She believes that the girls of her now are much more focussed on the moment. “It is important to be focused, and we are working very hard to do the right things in every possible way”, she added. Some of the players still recalled the year (2018) in the AFC U19 Women’s Qualifierswhen then Indian girls had romped home to a 18-0 victory against Pakistan. Two names who can never be erased from our minds from that encounter are that of Renu, and Soumya Guguloth. Renu had put up a five-star performance scoring five goals, while Soumya had scored a brace in that match. Four years later, these two girls have matured, and are now with the Women’s Senior National Team — all set to play in India’s opening encounter against Pakistan. “It gives me goosebumps every time we play against Pakistan. We are mentally, and physically confident, and aim to put up a strong performance,” Renu said. “I gave my best in my last match against Pakistan. But this time it will be for the Senior team.
It’s not just me, but everyone is geared up. If I get a chance I will surely love to score,” she smiled. When asked about her experience about facing Pakistan, Soumya quipped: “An Indo-Pak clash is always an exciting one, and both teams will be going all out to win it.” Pakistan head coach Adeel Rizki has set his focus to play good football against defending, and five-time champions India. “The Indian team are the defending champions and it’s always a challenge to play against a top team. We are here to play football, the game we love,” Rizki mentioned. “We feel our preparations have been good, and we are looking forward to making an impact”, he added. Pakistan played last in the SAFF Women’s Championship in 2014 where they hosted the tournament, but lost in the group stage. “The players are very excited to step onto the field. Our squad comprises both local, and overseas talent. We hope to play well and represent our country to the best of our abilities,” coach averred. Captain Maria Khan, a goalkeeper turned midfielder, grew up in the United States where she played football for the University of Denver, and is aware of her opponents. “We are keenly looking forward to playing India in our first match. We aim to be aggressive, and stay positive. We know that the expectations are high on both sides of the border. That is what is driving us. Such expectations help the sport grow in the region,” Maria informed. Hajra Khan who played against India in SAFF in the earlier editions is also a key player.