We Need Players Who Can Score: Coach Marquez on Chhetri’s Return
The Indian football team is gearing up for their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers opener against Bangladesh, and the return of their star player Sunil Chhetri has brought a fresh wave of optimism. However, India’s head coach Manolo Marquez has emphasized the importance of having players who can score goals for the team. In a recent statement, Marquez highlighted the significance of converting chances into goals, especially in crucial matches like the one against Bangladesh.
Under Marquez’s tenure, India has managed to score only two goals in four games, a statistic that has raised concerns about the team’s attacking prowess. The Spanish coach has acknowledged the need for improvement in this department, and the return of Chhetri, who announced his comeback from international retirement earlier this week, is seen as a welcome boost.
“At this moment, the most important thing is to get results,” Marquez stated, clearly emphasizing the priority of achieving victories over showcasing an attractive brand of football. While India has shown flashes of brilliance in their previous matches, the lack of clinical finishing has cost them dearly. The coach believes that having players who can score goals will be crucial in determining the team’s success.
Chhetri, who has been India’s go-to man in crucial situations, is known for his ability to find the back of the net. His experience and skill will undoubtedly be a valuable asset for the team, especially against a strong opponent like Bangladesh. The 39-year-old has a remarkable record of scoring crucial goals for the national team, and his presence will undoubtedly lift the team’s morale.
Marquez’s focus on results is understandable, given the importance of the upcoming qualifiers. The AFC Asian Cup 2027 is just two years away, and the Indian team needs to qualify for the tournament to maintain their presence on the international stage. The coach has been working tirelessly to improve the team’s performance, and the return of Chhetri will certainly give him more options to consider.
However, the question remains whether Chhetri’s return will be enough to turn the tide in India’s favor. The team has struggled to create clear-cut chances, and Marquez will need to work on improving the team’s attacking structure. The inclusion of younger players like Liston Colaco and Suresh Singh Wangjam, who have shown promise in their brief cameos, could also provide a fresh perspective.
The Indian team has a reputation for being a hard-working and determined unit, and Marquez will need to capitalize on this strength to achieve success. With Chhetri’s return, the team will have a more experienced and clinical finisher, but the coach will also need to work on improving the team’s overall attacking strategy.
In the context of the upcoming qualifiers, Marquez’s emphasis on results is understandable. The team needs to win games to qualify for the Asian Cup, and the coach will need to make the most of the resources at his disposal. Chhetri’s return is a welcome development, and the team will undoubtedly benefit from his presence. However, it is also essential for the coach to work on improving the team’s overall performance, including their attacking prowess.
In conclusion, Marquez’s statement highlights the importance of having players who can score goals for the Indian team. Chhetri’s return is a significant boost, but the coach will need to work on improving the team’s overall attacking strategy to achieve success. The AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers opener against Bangladesh is a crucial match, and the Indian team will need to deliver a strong performance to get off to a winning start.
