India National football team to play Agianst Bayern Munich Today!!!

India

0 vs 0

Bayern 

Pre Match
January 10, 2012 6:00 PM IST
Nehru Stadium,Delhi

Ahead of the much anticipated exhibition match between the Indian national side and German giants FC Bayern Munchen at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium today to give farewell to National hero Bhaichung Bhutia , former   Indian skipper Baichung Bhutia predicted a close contest between the two sides.

"I expect it to be a close encounter. I am very excited to be a part of it. It’s a proud moment for me," Bhutia said in the pre-match press conference today.

The match, which happens to be the farewell of the iconic Bhutia, would mark the end of a golden era in Indian football.

Commenting on the preparations for the match, India coach Savio Medeira said everyone in the side is excited for the match.

"Preparation is ok. We are ready for the match. Everyone knows the high standard of Germany and we are really for giving them a tough time in the field," he said.

Meanwhile, Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes, who is on his maiden tour to India said his team is well-prepared to take on the hosts.

"Its our first visit to India. We're looking forward to be in the country, we want to know the culture and the people," he said.

"We have come from Qatar playing for Bundesliga and very focussed on the match.," he added.

Responding to a question on the expected scoreline for tomorrow's game, Jupp said, "It all depends on how the match unfolds and we would strategise accordingly." The skipper of the visiting side, Philip Lahm echoed the words of his coach and said he was overwhelmed with the kind of reponse they received after landing in India. 

"Its my first visit to the country and I'm excited to know the country, the people and its culture," he said.

"Its a real test of character for us. Next week we're playing Bundesliga," he said.

Responding to a question on what he knew about Indian football, Lahm said, "To be honest, I don't know much about it! We only follow Indian cricket and ofcorse have heard about the legendary Bhutia." Meanwhile, Bhutia, who has been the torch-bearer of Indian football for more than a decade, expressed his confidence on the Indian side.

"I am very happy to see the youngsters performing. I hope I can leave the field after 16 years on a fine not," he said.

Bhutia also threw light on his calf muscle injury and hoped to stay in the field for the whole match.

"I have recovered from the injury, but haven't yet gained the sort of fitness which the national side or the Bayern players have," he said.

The proceeds of the exhibition match would be donated to the victims of the devasting earthquake in Sikkim last year, which also happens to be the home of the Indian legend Baichung Bhutia.