Football in India has been witnessing a significant surge in popularity, with a particular focus on the development of women’s football. In a recent development, Anthony Andrews has been recommended by the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) technical committee to assume the role of head coach for the national women’s team. This decision comes as a result of Andrews’ remarkable achievements and his expertise in the field. Let’s delve into the details of this exciting appointment and what it means for Indian women’s football.
Anthony Andrews, one of the youngest coaches in India with an AFC ‘A’ License, has been making waves in the football community. His successful tenure as the coach of Gokulam Kerala, leading them to consecutive Indian Women’s League (IWL) titles in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons, has caught the attention of many. With such credentials, Andrews has demonstrated his ability to guide a team to victory and nurture talent effectively.
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The recommendation by the AIFF’s technical committee, headed by IM Vijayan, signifies the trust and confidence they have in Anthony Andrews’ coaching abilities. After extensive discussions, the committee unanimously agreed to recommend Andrews for the esteemed position of head coach for the senior women’s national team. This appointment reflects Andrews’ exceptional skills and his potential to shape the future of women’s football in India.
Andrews is no stranger to many players in the national team set-up. Several prominent players, including captain Ashalata Devi, Grace Dangmei, Ranjana Chanu, Indumathi Kathiresan, and Sandhiya Ranganathan, were part of Gokulam Kerala under Andrews’ leadership. This existing rapport between the coach and the players can foster a positive and cohesive team environment, contributing to enhanced performance on the field.
The senior national women’s team, currently ranked 60th in the world, has a significant challenge ahead—the AFC Olympic Qualifiers Round 2, scheduled from October 26 to November 1. The team will compete against formidable opponents such as Japan, Vietnam, and Uzbekistan. The top two teams from each group will advance to the third round, with a chance to secure their spot in the prestigious 2024 Paris Olympics.
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In addition to recommending Anthony Andrews as the head coach for the women’s team, the AIFF’s technical committee also proposed Ishfaq Ahmed as the head coach of the national U-16 men’s team. Ahmed, a former player of renowned clubs like Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his new role. The committee further suggested Rajan Mani and Feroz Sharif for the positions of assistant coach and goalkeeper coach, respectively, at the U-16 national team.
The appointment of Anthony Andrews as the head coach for India’s national women’s football team signifies a significant step in the development of the sport in the country. Andrews’ exceptional track record and expertise make him an ideal candidate for this crucial role. Alongside Ishfaq Ahmed’s appointment for the U-16 men’s team, the future of Indian football looks promising. The AIFF’s recommendations reflect a commitment to fostering talent and creating a strong foundation for success in the international arena.
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