SAFF Women’s Championship | 'Important to test youngsters in big games': India coach Chettri

Crispin Chettri

India coach Crispin Chettri stressed on the need to take risks and try out younger players in tough matches ahead of their SAFF Women's Championship semi-final against Bhutan on Wednesday.

"If we do not take risks, it will not help in the long run. We give opportunities to younger players in friendlies, but it's more important to check their mindset in tough games," Chettri said at the pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

According to Chettri, trying out different combinations can help prepare a seasoned core team that could serve Indian women's football for the next few years. "I might lose my job if I do not win a few titles, but I'm keen to develop a strong Indian women's football team which has a realistic chance of qualifying for the World Cup in 2030," said Chettri.

About the semi-final clash with Bhutan, Chettri said, "Bhutan is a much improved team. They have worked very hard over the last five years, and we can't take them lightly."

About the chances of star striker Manisha Kalyan, getting a chance to play in the semi-finals, Chettri said, "Manisha [who plays for Alianza Lima in Peru's first division] has arrived on Tuesday afternoon after a very long flight from Peru. We need to check her fatigue levels. However, I am keen to give her at least 15 minutes [vs Bhutan]."