Synopsis
The Indian men's football team is in Shillong for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers, preparing with a friendly against the Maldives. Coach Manolo Marquez emphasizes the need for goal-scorers in the squad as they aim for success against Bangladesh.Key Takeaways
- Indian team arrives in Shillong ahead of AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.
- Historic friendly match against Maldives on March 19.
- Sunil Chhetri's return marks a significant moment for the team.
- Focus on scoring goals to achieve positive results.
- High expectations for the upcoming match against Bangladesh.
Shillong, March 15 (NationPress) The senior men's football team of India reached Shillong on Friday, gearing up for their inaugural match in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers against Bangladesh on March 25. To prepare, the Blue Tigers are set to compete against the Maldives in a friendly match on March 19, marking a historic event as the capital of Meghalaya will host the Indian men's team for the first time.
As the team made their way to the hotel, Manolo Marquez and his players were welcomed by large banners and promotional boards throughout Shillong. The highlight was undoubtedly the return of Sunil Chhetri, whose image dominated the scene. This match will also see Chhetri's 'second debut' for India, while Meghalaya prepares to make its international debut.
Having recently hosted the Indian Super League, the arrival of the Indian team has intensified the excitement in the city.
Defender Sandesh Jhingan expressed, "It’s always a pleasure to return to national duty. This is our first time playing in Shillong, and it’s an exhilarating prospect, especially since Meghalaya boasts a rich football culture. We are looking forward to the match here."
He added, "Our primary goal is to secure a win against Bangladesh, which would provide a strong start in the Asian Cup Qualifiers. The upcoming 10-day training, along with the friendly against Maldives, will be crucial in our preparation. We aim to achieve two clean sheet victories," stated the 31-year-old, who recorded eight clean sheets with FC Goa in the ISL this season.
The Indian squad engaged in a 45-minute gym session on Saturday morning and will have their first training on the pitch at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in the evening.
On Chhetri's return to the national setup, coach Manolo Marquez remarked, "Sunil is the top scorer in the ISL, having nearly double the goals of the next player, Brison. Following him are Subhasish, Irfan, and Manvir, all of whom are present with us. We need players who can score. In my four games, we’ve netted only two goals – one from a set-piece. Right now, securing results is our utmost priority. Nothing else is significant."
With 12 goals, this season has seen Chhetri achieve his highest score tally in the ISL, an impressive feat as he turned 40 last August. He has outscored his total from the last two ISL seasons combined.
“Given the special circumstances, I consulted with the AIFF and Bengaluru FC before reaching out to him. I spoke with Sunil to clarify my expectations. Age doesn’t matter; the national team requires players who are in prime form,” Marquez concluded.
