India’s U20 Squad Prepares for AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers in Laos

Updated on: October 13, 2024 3:31 pm GMT

The India U20 men’s football team is gearing up for a critical journey that could shape the future of young football in the nation. Following their recent setback in the SAFF U20 Championship, the team is determined to break new ground as they embark on the 2025 AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers in Laos. With kick-off just around the corner, fans are eager to see if the Blue Colts can achieve a historic milestone.

Squad Arrives in Laos

The team, under the guidance of head coach Ranjan Chaudhuri, landed in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, on Monday, September 23, 2024. Known for its scenic beauty and rich culture, the city welcomed the players after their long journey. Their immediate focus was on recuperation, preparing for their opening match against Mongolia in just two days.

Group G Matches Scheduled

India finds itself placed in Group G, which includes:

• Mongolia – September 25
• IR Iran – September 27
• Hosts Laos – September 29

All matches will take place at the Lao National Stadium KM16 in Vientiane. The Blue Colts are looking to rebound from their recent semi-final defeat against Bangladesh, where they lost in a tense penalty shootout.

Team Motivation and Goals

Despite the disappointment in the SAFF U20 Championship, the India U20 squad is highly motivated. “It’s never about the defeat. Such things keep happening in football,” Chaudhuri commented, emphasizing the team’s determination to redeem themselves. The primary goal remains clear: qualify for the AFC U20 Asian Cup, a feat that has yet to be achieved by any Indian U20 team.

Chaudhuri noted, “The motivation is high among the boys. Our track record doesn’t matter; what matters is our efforts on the pitch.”

Challenges Ahead

The head coach acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, particularly when facing Iran, which is regarded as one of the continent’s top teams. He recognizes the strength of the other competing teams, stating, “Both Mongolia and Laos are good teams, and we must be at our best to make the final cut.”

Preparation for the Qualifiers

In preparation for the qualifiers, the Blue Colts conducted an intensive 18-day training camp in Goa. Chaudhuri explained, “We’ve played several closed-door practice matches, and the standards are higher at this level. Our boys have also improved a lot in the last few weeks.”

Although he expressed that international experience would have been advantageous, he remains optimistic about the training the team received.

Confidence in the Squad

The coaching staff has made only three changes to the squad that participated in the SAFF tournament due to injuries. However, this has not dampened the team’s spirit. Chaudhuri’s belief in his squad remains unwavering as they strive for success in Laos.

“The SAFF exit was an unpleasant experience, but I can see how it has motivated the boys. We just want to do one thing: qualify for the U20 Asian Cup and create history,” he said emphatically.

This focus on qualification is not only vital for the current players but also for the future of Indian football. Chaudhuri added, “Not only will it be good for our players, but for the upcoming generations as well.”

Upcoming Matches Overview

As the India U20s prepare for their matches, the schedule is set, and the atmosphere is charged with anticipation:

Conclusion

The India U20 men’s football team is getting ready to show what they can do on the world stage. With a strong spirit and positive attitude, the Blue Colts are not just looking to do well in the AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers; they also want to inspire young football players in India. As the game time gets closer, everyone will be watching to see if they can do something amazing and qualify for their first U20 Asian Cup. Fans are excited and hopeful for a new and exciting chapter in Indian football!