Bayern match inspirational value for Indian players: Bhutia

After playing his last match in national colours, former football captain Bhaichung Bhutia today hoped that the young Indian players would be inspired by the international stars who played in his farewell exhibition match here today.

German giants Bayern Munich thrashed India, led by Bhaichung one last time, 4-0 with all the goals coming in the first half. Bhutia praised his team-mates for the fighting spirit they showed against a far superior opponent.

"In the first half, I think the boys were carried away by the big names in the Bayern team but they played excellent in the second half. It's not the right time to play against Bayern as they are in the best of form.

"We know the difference in standard. But I thought our players showed the fighting spirit and the enthusiasm and did not let any goal in the second half," Bhaichung told reporters at the post-match press conference.

The Sikkimese Sniper, who retired last year from international football after playing for 16 years in more than 100 matches for the country, praised all his teammates and coaches for the contribution they made in his career.

He also acknowledged the effort put in by the AIFF and Bayern Munich for arranging his farewell match. "I thanked my former and current team-mates and the coaches I have played under. They have contributed to my game in the 16 years of my career. I also thank Audi, the AIFF and the Bayern for arranging my farewell match. I am honoured to have played my farewell match against Bayern and I thoroughly enjoyed playing in today's match," he said.