Playing difficult opponents helped prepare for AFC Cup final: Sunil Chhetri

Doha: After becoming the first Indian side to march into AFC Cup final, Bengaluru FC are a win away from etching their name in the history books once again when they take on Iraq’s Air Force FC in the summit clash on Sunday. The mouthwatering clash will take place at Suheim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha.

The Sunil Chhetri-led side recently went through a significant change, with Albert Roca taking over as the manager of the club from the iconic Ashley Westwood, who helped the Blues win two I-League titles and a Federation Cup in three seasons.

Chhetri has enjoyed some success on the domestic circuit, winning four I-League titles (once each with Dempo and Churchill Brothers and twice with Bengaluru), and on Federation cup (with Bengaluru).

However, the striker has not tasted much success on the continental front (in club football) as of yet. We got an opportunity to speak to Chhetri over email, ahead of the crucial AFC Cup final. Here are some of the excerpts from our conversation with him.

You are set to lead your side out to the field on what could be the biggest match in the history of Indian club football. Nervous?

Excited, not nervous is the word I would go with. We’ve played hard through the competition and are up against a really good team and I’d like to believe we will be up for the fight. It’s not going to be easy even for a minute but we’re up for this.

What kind of mental preparation are you and the boys taking, before such a huge game?

The team has a nice blend of experience and young heads and it’s nice to see the senior boys constantly talk to the youngsters. We’ve come up against some really tough situations and opponents in this competition and that’s gone a long way in helping us mentally. The senior boys on the team (Alvaro Rubio, John Johnson, Rino Anto) have all been speaking to the younger lot. We’re all helping each other out and that’s how it has always been. 

How different is Roca’s style of coaching from that of Westwood’s? How have you and the team managed to cope with the different styles?

Each coach brings in his own style and that’s how football is the world over. We’re no different. As players we have to be adaptable enough to make the switch in systems. Ashley had his own style and Albert has brought in his own brand of football. Both styles are distinct but the key is that the team enjoyed training then and that hasn’t changed now. 

How much support are you anticipating in Doha?

Our flight landed way past midnight in Doha and we were welcomed by members of the Indian community there and though we were tired, seeing them made us happy. Doha has a massive Indian community and I am certain they will turn up in big numbers for the game. We’re going to need every bit of support.