Sharjah: India coach Stephen Constantine stepped down yesterday after an injury-time Bahrain penalty floored his side 1-0 and denied them a historic spot in the Asian Cup knockout stages.
After the defeat, Constantine announced he would step down after completing his second spell in charge.
“Stephen Constantine is stepping down after this game,” said the Englishman, speaking in the third person.
“I’ve been here for four years. My objective from day one was to qualify for the Asian Cup. I’ve done that and we’ve broken a few records. I’m exceptionally proud of the players for everything that they’ve given.
“I think my cycle is finished,” added the 56-year-old, who rejoined India for a second spell in 2015.
“I did what I was asked and quite a bit more and it’s time for me to move on.”