Let's stay on earth: Coach Stimac says main focus on WC qualifiers

India need to make sure of enough points so that they have 5-6 home games in Rd 3

- Dhiman Sarkar

India's preparation for the 2024 Asian Cup is likely to begin on December 30 when the players assemble in Doha. The plan is to ring in 2024 as a family and do the best in the 12 days of training possible before the first game against Australia, said a team official here on Wednesday.

The official, who requested anonymity to protect relationships, ruled out friendlies to prepare for Asia's showpiece event citing lack of time and risk of injury. "To play one could cost us three training sessions at least, in terms of preparing for that game and recovering from it. Better we focus our energy on games against more superior opponents," the official said.

At least one of whom, according to India head coach Igor Stimac, are superior to Qatar. "Australia are better than Qatar," he said after India's 0-3 defeat to the reigning Asian Cup champions here on Tuesday.

India start on January 13. Uzbekistan, who came from behind to hold Iran 2-2 on Tuesday, are up next on January 18. They have forced draws against Mexico and Venezuela and beaten China and Vietnam this year. For the Asian Cup, Uzbekistan will be preparing for six weeks, said Stimac. India end the group league against Syria on January 24. This is the first time India have qualified for two consecutive Asian Cup finals.