Bengaluru FC coach Albert Roca: This might be start of a new era of Indian Football

"Yes, we have lost out on certain points tonight. They have played a great football but my boys have shown what they are capable of and it might indicate a start of a new era of Indian Football," Roca said after the match, reported PTI.

A brave Bengaluru FC had their Doha dreams dashed after a Hammadi Ahmad goal in the 70th minute was enough to crown Iraqi side Air Force Club champions of the AFC Cup at the Suhaim Bin Hamad Stadium, in Doha, on Saturday night. Roca, however, lauded the Iraqi club for the brand of football they put on display in the final.

"We didn't play against such a strong opponent before and obviously we have learnt many a minute aspect from this match. It'll help us prepare for future and we'll come back stronger next season.

"They played a terrific brand of football and I congratulate them from the bottom of my heart for winning the AFC Cup, that becomes more special as they are the first club from Iraq to achieve this," Roca added.

The Spanish coach also gave a mention to Lalthuammawia Ralte, who had replaced the suspended Amrinder Singh in the team for the final. He said, "He has always pushed Amrinder (Singh) for the place in the starting eleven, and he truly performed and stood up when the situation demanded.”