India U-23 football team head coach Naushad Moosa said his team would focus on playing good football rather than worrying about defending their title as they prepared to begin their campaign in the Techno SAFF Championship against Pakistan tomorrow (Thursday).

Speaking at the pre-match press conference at the city’s local hotel today (Wednesday), Moosa acknowledged that India had limited preparation time and would compete in the regional tournament with a relatively young squad due to the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) and a planned tour of New Zealand.

“I have come with a young team. The reason is that we also have a friendly tour of New Zealand, where another squad will play two matches. But when you talk about pressure, I love that pressure, and I want my players to play freely,” he said.

Responding to a question about India’s previous dominance over Pakistan, including their 4-0 victory in the 2023 SAFF Championship, Moosa warned against underestimating their opponents.

“Pakistan are a totally different team now. They have a lot of players playing in Europe, even if some are in the fourth or fifth divisions. They have a strong team, and we are prepared for the challenge. We would definitely like to win the match,” he said.

Moosa declined to disclose his tactical plans for the opening encounter but expressed confidence in his team’s abilityনিজস্ব প্রতিবেদক to compete.

India captain Nathan Rodrigues also expressed confidence ahead of the championship, saying the squad were ready for the challenge despite having limited numbers.

“We are a short squad, but we are fully prepared. We have come here to have a good competition, and I think the squad is ready to play,” he said.

Asked whether the India-Pakistan rivalry would create additional pressure, Nathan said it would rather serve as motivation for the players.

“There is no pressure, but the motivation will be there to give our best and put everything on the pitch. Hopefully, we will get a good result,” he added.

Pakistan captain Alamgir Ghazi vowed to give their opponents a tough challenge.

Bramble said the team had completed a satisfactory training camp in Pakistan despite some logistical difficulties and delays in arrival.

Alamgir said the players were confident, motivated and ready to perform well in the tournament.

Describing the opening match as a special occasion, he said the team are looking forward to playing good football and making a positive start in the tournament.