The Indian team is bracing up for one of its toughest challenges as it takes on heavyweights South Korea here Monday for a berth in the semifinals of the AFC U-16 Championship and a ticket to the next U-17 World Cup.
The Indian colts, coached by Bibiano Fernandes, have qualified for the quarter-final of the ongoing AFC U-16 Championship and now Korea, one of the strongest teams in the competition, stands in between.
Sixteen years ago, the Indian U-16 team lost to Korea 1-3 in the same stage.
"We know Korea Republic are the favourites and we are the underdogs," head coach Bibiano stated.
"They are the overwhelming favourites."
"If Korea Republic underestimate us, we shall prove them otherwise and give them a run for their money."
"Anything can happen in a football match and anything can happen in the elimination rounds. We cannot predict the future but will play our hearts out to make a dream come true."