Sport | Football
Strong rivals hope to take India down at Nehru Cup
India will face strong competition as they attempt to defend their title at the 14th ONGC Nehru Cup to be held in New Delhi next month.
- By Alaric Gomes, Senior Reporter
- Published: 23:30 July 17, 2009
Dubai: India will face strong competition as they attempt to defend their title at the 14th ONGC Nehru Cup to be held in New Delhi next month.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) announced on Thursday that national teams representing Syria, Lebanon, Thailand, Kyrgyzstan and Sri Lanka will be up against the hosts.
The 14th edition of the ONGC Nehru Cup will be played from August 18 to 30 at the Dr Ambedkar Stadium in New Delhi.
The six participating teams will be divided into two groups with the winners and runners-up from each group qualifying for the semifinals.
India are the defending champions, having defeated Syria 1-0 in the finals on August 29, 2007, in New Delhi. But this year's tournament will be tougher for the hosts and a good test for coach Bob Houghton to judge the progress of his team after their extensive training camps in Dubai and Barcelona.
India is preparing for the 2011 Asian Cup to be held in Qatar. India have qualified for the first time after 25 years for this continental competition.
Sport Editor's choice
-
Diarra brace sinks formidable Al Ahli
Emirates Club score a major upset while 10-man Dubai split points with Al Shabab
-
Godolphin seek big-race clues
Dubai Prince and Prince Bishop in the spotlight at Dubai World Cup Carnival meeting
-
Quiros chases Dubai hat-trick
Spaniard not taking win for granted
