Embarrassing loss for India but Koevermans says goal achieved

Kathmandu: Indian football coach Wim Koevermans did not say in as many words that Nepal were the better side in today`s group match of the SAFF Football Tournament which his side lost 1-2, but insisted his players have achieved their goal of reaching the semifinals.

"We knew Nepal were a very good team. They were quick and have some very good quality players. They did threaten us but did not have clear chances in the first half," Koevermans said at the post-match press conference. "In the second half, we kicked long and it was easy for them to defend. I want to congratulate Nepal on their victory but at the same time, it was our aim to advance to the semis which we eventually did," he said. The Dutchman rued that his players could not execute the plans chalked out by him. "Players need to follow plan but it didn`t really happen. We look forward to play the fourth final on 9th," he said. India, who pipped Pakistan for a last-four berth on the head-to-head count, play either Maldives or Afghanistan in the second semifinal on September 9. India finished second in Group A with four points from three matches, while Nepal topped the group with seven points from the same number of outings. PTI