India's New Women's Football Coach Amelia Valverde Focuses on Asian Cup Legacy
The newly appointed head coach of India's women's football team, Amelia Valverde, has outlined her vision for the upcoming AFC Women's Asian Cup, stressing that the tournament represents more than just on-field results for the squad. The 39-year-old Costa Rican, who took charge earlier this month, brings extensive experience from leading her home country to two Women's World Cup appearances.
Valverde's Perspective on India's Football Journey
Valverde, speaking from Turkey where the team is currently training, highlighted the transformative potential of a strong Asian Cup performance for women's football in India. "If the girls go and do well in the Women's Asian Cup, everything will be different for women's football in India," she stated. The coach pointed out that while the Indian men's team has faced challenges recently, the women's squad has quietly made history by qualifying for the Asian Cup through the qualification route for the first time.
India, ranked 70th globally, secured their spot with a surprising victory over 46th-ranked Thailand. Valverde described this achievement as historic, noting that the team displayed remarkable bravery and determination during the qualification process. "I know football in India has had a difficult year, but that is not the story of this team," she emphasized.
Preparation Challenges and Team Spirit
Despite her appointment being announced on January 20, less than two months before India's opening match against Vietnam on March 4, Valverde remains optimistic about the preparation timeline. The team is scheduled to travel to Perth on February 10 for additional friendly matches ahead of the tournament in Australia, which begins on March 1.
Valverde acknowledged the tight schedule but praised the team's work ethic. "We have just over a month to prepare for the tournament. We have to do the best work in this time. I found the team wants to work hard and prepare as well as possible," she said. Interestingly, the coach has yet to visit India, conducting all her initial sessions and friendly matches in Turkey.
Broader Impact on Women's Football Development
Valverde believes that a successful Asian Cup campaign could catalyze significant growth for women's football in India. She stressed that the players are not just competing for results but are also inspiring young girls across the country. "All of you talk about World Cup qualification, but it is more than that. These players are doing something different for the women of their country," she explained.
The coach also addressed structural challenges, noting that the Indian Women's League (IWL) season consists of only 27 matches, compared to 22 matches per team in England's Women's Super League. She expressed hope that improved performances would lead to league enhancements and greater participation. "The league will improve, and more women need to play football," Valverde asserted.
Looking Ahead to the Tournament
As India prepares for their Asian Cup campaign, Valverde remains focused on both immediate goals and long-term legacy. "Absolutely, one of our targets is World Cup qualification, but it's more than that. We will do our best in this month of preparation, take a luggage full of dreams to Australia, and see what happens," she concluded.
The team's journey under Valverde's guidance represents a pivotal moment for Indian women's football, with potential ramifications extending far beyond the tournament's final standings.
