No team can afford to relax in the semifinal tomorrow as the number of teams that would make it to Malaysia-Singapore Junior World Cup is still undecided. Contrary to media reports that six of the eight teams including the two co-hosts will make it to the Jr. World Cup, it is now gathered from no other authoritative person than the Tournament Director Krishnan Ramamoorthy himself that that is not true.
“Last time four teams from Asia were there in the Junior World Cup which had 16 teams, but now 20. This time also minimum four teams will qualify. Perhaps, one or more. Two co-hosts, and two more from here, that is the finalists here, are sure. Beyond that, the decision will be taken when the FIH meets at Beijing during the Olympics”
That means not to take chances India need to win the semifinal against Pakistan tomorrow. If it manages to win it will be sure of the World Cup. Even a bronze can ensure a place, but till that is confirmed by the FIH, one has to wait.
So, the target for India is to win the dangerous semifinal. Any case India or Korea, India has to play one tough game and come out with colours in order to make it to the world cup and also to ensure its good run in the various age group Asia Cups.
Strictly speaking Pakistan was the better choice for the semis than Korea because the latter is going great guns. 11-0 against Oman is another indication of Korean’s form.
Even last time when India met Korea in the semis of the Karachi Junior Asia Cup in 2004, it had come out after much of an ordeal. Goalkeeper Adrian D’Souza came out with colours in the tie-breakers, as Sandeep Singh could not fire even a token goal in this contest. Otherwise his tally was 16 goals.
So, it is time for India to deliver and make sure of Junior World Cup entry once and for all.
The semis tomorrow is very crucial for both the former Asian giants, as Pakistan is also in the same predicament as the hosts is in.