India hardly looked like defending champions in the semi-final of the SAFF Cup against Bhutan on Wednesday. And though they struggled to beat their unfancied opponents 2-1, skipper Baichung Bhutia insisted that it was just a bad day in the office.
Defender Gourmangi Singh emerged India's saviour at the National Stadium in Male, Maldives, his last gasp goal in the second half the extra-time avoiding any embarrassment for the reigning champions.
"It was one of those performances when nothing goes right for the team. It happens in football and can happen to any other team," Bhutia said from Male.
"You should not read too much into the semi-final game. That was just a one-off game. We all struggled. It didn't go according to the plan," added the poster boy of Indian football.
Bhutan drew first blood through the talismanic Kinley Dorji in the 18th minute. India equalised in the 30th minute through Sunil Chetri and finally Gourmangi sealed the match with his extra-time winner.
India's profligate forwards, including Bhutia, cut a sorry figure in the match.
"We created a lot of chances. Most of them were good chances but we failed to convert them," he admitted.
Having missed a few chances in the game against Bhutan, the Sikkimese star was particularly unhappy with his form.
"Not one, I missed many chances. I just needed one goal to score but that did not happen. However, I'm happy that the team as reached the final," the 31-year-old said.
Asked what Bob Houghton had to say about the show, Bhutia said the coach kept quiet.
"Normally he doesn't speak after the match, whether it's a win or loss."
India, four-time champions, meet Maldives at Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo on Saturday in the summit clash.
A 70th minute strike by Ibrahim Fazeel helped Maldives pip Sri Lanka in second semi-final under lights at the Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo on Wednesday night.
Bhutia, who had earlier said that Maldives are the best side to beat, said he is not unduly worried to face them again.
"We all are very confident against Maldives. They are a very good side. It will be a good contest. It's difficult to say who will be the winners. We have 50-50 chances," he said.
For India, who have been playing in Male, ground conditions for the final venue in Colombo will be different and that is a factor for the captain.
"Only the ground conditions will be different. There, however, won't be much difference in the weather. We should play our natural game," Bhutia said.
Fitness, however, remains a concern for India and Steven Dias, Rennedy Singh and N S Manju will not be available for the final as they are not fit, Bhutia said.
