Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, the captain and goalkeeper of the Indian national football team, is drawing inspiration from an unlikely source as India prepares to face Iran: Grimsby Town. The Mariners, as they are known, recently completed a remarkable comeback to avoid relegation from League Two in English football, a feat that has resonated with Sandhu and the entire Indian squad.

Sandhu, who made his international debut against Iran in 2015, believes that Grimsby's improbable survival serves as a powerful reminder that "nothing is impossible in football". This mantra is particularly relevant as India faces a daunting challenge against a formidable Iranian side in the CAFA (Central Asian Football Association) Nations Cup.

India has been drawn into a tough group alongside Iran and Afghanistan for the CAFA Nations Cup. After defeating Tajikistan 2-1, India is hoping to put up a strong performance against Iran. Sandhu has emphasized the importance of a winning mentality, especially after a string of underwhelming results. He stressed that the team needs to change its mindset and aim for victory against any opponent, whether it's Tajikistan, Iran, or anyone else.

Sandhu's journey to becoming India's first-choice goalkeeper has been filled with challenges and triumphs. He made his debut for the senior national team in 2011 against Turkmenistan and has since become a mainstay in the squad. He also holds the distinction of being the only Indian to play in the UEFA Europa League, a feat he achieved while playing for Norwegian club Stabaek. In 2016, he also became the first Indian to captain a European club.

Despite his personal achievements, Sandhu remains focused on the collective goal of improving Indian football. He believes that more Indian players need to play abroad to gain experience and exposure to different styles of play. He also acknowledges the importance of having an Indian coach who can communicate effectively with the players in their own language.

Looking ahead to the clash against Iran, Sandhu is under no illusions about the difficulty of the task. He recognizes Iran's strength and pedigree, but he also believes that India has the potential to cause an upset. He draws confidence from India's goalless draw against Qatar in a 2019 FIFA World Cup qualifier, a match that showcased the team's resilience and determination.

While Sandhu acknowledges that the preparation for the CAFA Nations Cup has been less than ideal, with some players, including himself, missing pre-season training due to salary suspensions, he emphasizes the importance of mental fortitude. He believes that the team's mental strength will be crucial in overcoming the challenges they face.

As India prepares to take on Iran, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu's leadership and experience will be vital. His inspiration from Grimsby Town's improbable escape serves as a timely reminder that anything is possible in football, and that with belief and determination, India can compete against even the most formidable opponents.