I don't look at rankings, have respect for Cambodia: Igor Stimac

Igor Stimac refused to read much into their higher ranking on the eve of the Asian Cup Qualifiers, saying it doesn't matter in present day football. Eyeing a second straight Asian Cup qualification and fifth overall, 106th ranked India start as favourites and rank way higher than their three group D opponents in Cambodia, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. "I respect every opposition.

I don't look at rankings. Cambodia didn't come here to participate, they came with the same desire to win the game," Stimac said on the eve of their group opener. "When India were down 180 in rankings, we went to win the games and not lose them.

I would also have more respect for each opponent. I'd never say we can win against anyone easily. That would be disrespectful.

We need to be ready, hungry and fully motivated for these games." "There's no easy game anymore. That was some 50 years ago. From 100 positions until 180-200, there is a very small margin and difference in quality," he added.

The Croat, whose contract has been extended till the end of the Asian Cup Qualifiers, faces a big test as he outlined his strategy to press for an early goal. "I'd say that we have prepared for any case scenario, but we intend to press for the first minute of the game and put Cambodia under high pressure. "We need to prove that we are favourites and we need to control as well as be ready to handle the counter-attacks.