Bhutia feels the team is well focussed

Panaji: Indian captain Bhaichung Bhutia and coach Stephen Constantine hope for a good start to the 2006 World Cup qualifiers beginning here Wednesday.

India open their campaign in the Asian Zone Group III with a match against Singapore. The other teams in the group are Asian champions Japan and highly-rated Oman.

“We respect Singapore as a team, but we don’t fear anyone. The team is relaxed and looking forward to a good game Wednesday. We are going in with a positive attitude and want to make it difficult for the other teams,” Constantine said.

Bhutia also sounded optimistic saying “the team was playing well and was focussed”.

“A good start would be crucial in deciding the result of the match,” he said.

Bhutia also had a word of praise for the fans in Goa. “I prefer Goa as a venue because the crowd support here is fantastic.”

Meanwhile, sport accessories major Adidas India launched the first-ever official jersey for the Indian football team. The dark and light blue jersey is made from a patented technology ‘climalite’ which provides the essential moisture management, a company release said.

The breathable fabric soaks moisture from the skin allowing the athletes to stay dry.