Sudeep Pakrashi:
Naushad Moosa thanks the All India Football Federation (AIFF) for organizing two preparatory matches for his Under-23 national team against two stronger teams.
The Indian Under-23 national team will play against Tajikistan and Kyrghyz Republic on June 18th and 21st, respectively, at Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
Moosa while speaking from Guwahati revealed, “Last time the national Under-23 boys had two preparatory matches against Malaysia under-23. We lost one and drew in other match. But this time, both teams, Tajikistan and Kyrghyz Republic are much stronger than us, and playing against them should benefit our boys a lot. Simultaneously, as a coach, I will also be able to make an assessment of the team’s strength.”
Compared to the under-23 national side last year, Moosa who also was the chief coach of the under-23 national team, feels the 29 probables who have been called up in the two-week preparatory camp starting from 1st June in Kolkata, are more young and have potential in number compared to the team.
“Most of the footballers who were playing in the ISL were in the under-23 national team last year. This year, potential but young footballers are more in number. A reason is there behind choosing these probales as our aim is to construct a formidable team before the under-23 Asian Cup qualifiers to be held later this year and the Asian Games next year in Japan. So it is a long-term plan to develop the young, potential footballers for the future,” added Moosa.
The 53-year-old coach, who works with NorthEast United FC in the ISL, is also planning to observe the forthcoming Durand Cup with a purpose of scouting performers from the tournament. “I want to see the footballers from I-League teams also,” said Moosa.
However, the coach believes that this time the preparation will be even more exciting, as it offers a unique opportunity to work closely with talented young footballers and help them unlock their full potential. With the right guidance and hard work, he’s confident these players will rise to the challenge.
