The Blue Colts are aiming to create history by qualifying for the AFC U23 Asian Cup for the first time. With the group winners assured of a direct ticket to Saudi Arabia 2026 and only four best second-placed sides across all 11 groups joining them, Thursday\u2019s clash against Qatar could prove pivotal in shaping India\u2019s qualification hopes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\"It\u2019s always a good thing to start with a win and get those three points,\u201d said Moosa after the win over Bahrain. \u201cThat win gave us a lot of hope and belief that if we do well against Qatar, we\u2019ll have the chance to qualify. It\u2019s very important we go forward with a winning mentality.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Qatar began their campaign with a thumping 13-0 victory over Brunei Darussalam, showcasing their attacking prowess. Moosa acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying, \u201cQatar are probably one of the best teams in Asia that we could face. Their playing style is totally different from Bahrain\u2019s. They rely on short passes, quick switches, and a lot of wing play. We need to focus on stopping those movements from the sides.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Reflecting on the Bahrain game, Moosa credited India\u2019s preparation and collective effort. \u201cDuring the 20-day camp in Bangalore, followed by a few days in Malaysia, where we played the friendlies against Iraq, we worked a lot on teamwork. The players were aggressive and played like a team, which helped us a lot. Against Qatar, we cannot afford lapses. We have to be strong and disciplined until the final whistle.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
While Qatar enjoys the comfort of home conditions, Moosa believes his boys have adjusted well in Doha. \u201cWe\u2019ve been here for almost a week, played one game, and trained regularly. The players are acclimated to the weather. Also, since the match is at 8 pm, later than the last one, I don\u2019t think conditions will affect us much.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Reflecting on the Bahrain game, Moosa credited India\u2019s preparation and collective effort. \u201cDuring the 20-day camp in Bangalore, followed by a few days in Malaysia, where we played the friendlies against Iraq, we worked a lot on teamwork. The players were aggressive and played like a team, which helped us a lot. Against Qatar, we cannot afford lapses. We have to be strong and disciplined until the final whistle.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The coach also praised the team\u2019s attitude and togetherness after the opening win. \u201cI always tell the players to stay grounded and humble. Tomorrow\u2019s game is the most important one. I\u2019m happy to see the boys are really serious about this game. The team bonding is very strong, and that togetherness is a big strength for us. Hopefully, we\u2019ll get a positive result tomorrow,\" Moosa concluded.<\/p>\r\n\r\n