After India's lacklustre display in the first two games of the SAFF Championship, coach Igor Stimac had to face criticism from several quarters. However, after India clinched their eighth title on Saturday night beating Nepal 3-0 in the final, the Croatian would be breathing a lot easier.
AIFF's (All India Football Federation) Technical Committee chairman Shyam Thapa has backed Stimac and appreciated his efforts to help the Indian team turn around their fortunes.
What did Shyam Thapa say?
"I had full faith in the team. I asked everyone to be patient. The first two matches were not the final, and in the final, they showed what they are.