As the India U-16 team were to leave for the AFC U-16 championships last night, head coach Colin Toal voiced his optimism and insisted not to put too much pressure on the young lads.
Colin Toal,Coach U-16 Indian Team
The 23 member India U-16 squad left for Uzbekistan late last night to participate in the AFC U-16 championships which is to be held in Tashkent from the 4th to 18th of this month.
Speaking to Goal.com, the Irishman said, “It’s a big thing for Indian football but it’s important not to have too much expectations. The boys need to enjoy and play under no pressure.”
For a country like India, this seems impossible as we have new ‘overnight heroes’ after every good performance.
“I understand that but it’s imperative to let them play naturally,” added Toal.
The technical director feels that the boys have given a good account of themselves in the past year, which includes the famous 3-3 draw against Manchester United.
“Whether it’s Germany, Manchester, Saudi Arabia or Iraq, the boys have been doing well and represented the country in a positive light. “
India are drawn in Group B where they face South Korea, Syria and Indonesia.
“It’s tough to say as to which is team is good especially in age group competitions. But South Korea are known to have one of the best youth development programmes in Asia.
“Several players have befitted from this policy and have gone on to play the Olympics and even the World Cup. The other teams – Syria and Indonesia, I have no idea. But this is AFC U-16 championships with the best 16 teams in Asia participating, so no easy ones.”
Toal added that the biggest plus point of this tournament would be that India would know where it stands.
“It will be a good test to know where we stand and accordingly, we can plan for the future.”
Source:Goal.com
