Indian football team arrives in Muscat

NEW DELHI: The Indian national football team arrived in Muscat for an international friendly against Oman, which is slated to be played on Thursday.
The 30-member squad has been camping in Dubai as part of preparation for the forthcoming AFC Challenge Cup, since February 16.
National coach Savio Medeira feels the friendly would help India gear up for the coveted tournament in a major way.
"The match against Oman forms an integral part of our preparation for the forthcoming AFC Challenge Cup. This apart, we have another International Friendly lined up against Azerbaijan on February 27."
"Both the matches would help us gauge our progress," he added.
Oman are presently ranked 95 in the FIFA ladder while India are at 154.
Before arriving in Muscat, the team went through various training sessions in Dubai, under the watchful eyes of Medeira and physical trainer Pradeep Dutta.
Medeira sounded pleased when asked about the practice facilities in Dubai.
"The team went through rigorous exercises and stay in good shape. They have responded well," he informed.
"We have a tough task ahead. This is a young bunch and many would be playing their first international match. We need to stay focused."