In an exclusive interview with Adhadhu Sport, Maldives national football head coach Istvan Urbányi called for patience, structure and greater international exposure ahead of the Diamond Jubilee International Tournament. He said preparations were far from ideal due to the lack of an overseas training camp and friendly matches, and stressed that football identity and development take time.
One outlet so far Only Adhadhu (English) has reported this among the sources we monitor. A gap in what we monitor, not proof that others did not report it.
Of course, this tournament is very important, not only to celebrate the 75 years of Maldives football, but because it gives us international matches against stronger and more competitive opponents.
For us, this tournament is not only about results, but also about understanding our real level and what we need to improve moving forward.
Football identity is not built in a few weeks. It requires repetition, continuity, and more importantly competitive matches.
There is no problem with expectations. Maldivian fans are very passionate, especially during home tournaments. But passion and reality must also meet somewhere in the middle.
Nothing to compare yet. If another monitored source reports it, its headline appears beside this one.
Of course, this tournament is very important, not only to celebrate the 75 years of Maldives football
Word for word from the report in Adhadhu (English). Open the report
Having returned to the Maldives after nearly 13 years, Urbanyi acknowledged that while some infrastructure issues remain, he has also seen several positive developments within the country's football landscape.
Word for word from the report in Adhadhu (English). Open the report
