Bengaluru, Aug 25 (PTI) India's new head coach, Khalid Jamil, expressed confidence as the team prepares for the CAFA Nations Cup despite some high-profile absentees from the national camp. Indian Super League (ISL) champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant have chosen not to release their seven players, citing the non-FIFA international window status of the tournament as justification. Jamil, taking over from Igor Stimac, had to finalize his 23-member squad from the 29 campers.
"Some clubs are not releasing players due to various reasons," Jamil noted during his inaugural press conference. "We're also just coming off the season, so we'll work with those available." Despite these challenges, Jamil remains optimistic, “It's a significant challenge, yet I haven’t encountered problems with the players I have. Their attitudes are excellent."
On queries about player morale following the ISL's temporary suspension by organizers FSDL, Jamil said the players remain professional. They know their focus on the pitch remains paramount, and such matters haven’t disrupted their training. “There's no room for excuses. Everyone is working hard, and I'm receiving ample support from both the players and AIFF leadership.”
India is grouped in Group B for the CAFA Nations Cup, scheduled to play against co-hosts Tajikistan on August 29, Iran on September 1, and Afghanistan on September 4 in Hisor. The tournament concludes with the third-place match and final on September 8, in Hisor and Tashkent, respectively.
The camp, which began on August 16, initially saw just 22 players due to concurrent participation in the Durand Cup. Seven more players joined later. Jamil reiterated the critical nature of mental strength and team unity: "The players must believe in themselves and function cohesively. That's our primary focus."
Following the CAFA Nations Cup, India faces a more stringent test with upcoming Asian Cup qualifier matches against Singapore. Jamil remains focused on current objectives, anticipating these tournaments as vital trials for team development. "This tournament will serve as a crucial preparatory phase for the Asian Cup qualifiers, sharpening our focus on potential areas for improvement to enhance our qualification prospects for the 2027 Asian Cup."
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