With the Durand Cup set to kick off the new football season, Indian Army Football Team head coach Antony Ramesh has expressed confidence in his squad’s preparation, while stressing the importance of teamwork, discipline, and consistency as they prepare to face some of the country’s top clubs.
Calling the Durand Cup one of Asia’s oldest and most prestigious football tournaments, Ramesh said it is always a matter of pride for the Army team to begin its season in such a historic competition.
“The Durand Cup is one of the oldest and most prestigious football tournaments in Asia. It is always an honour to begin our season with such a historic competition. The players and staff are excited, motivated, and looking forward to representing the Indian Army with pride.”
The Army side has undergone an intensive pre-season, with the coaching staff focusing on fitness, tactical organisation, team cohesion, and match sharpness through training sessions and practice matches.
“Our preparations have been systematic and intensive. We have focused on improving fitness, tactical organisation, team cohesion, and match sharpness through training sessions and practice matches. The players have shown great commitment, and we are confident of being well prepared.”
Ramesh believes his squad possesses the right blend of experience and youth. He highlighted the contributions of players such as Christo, Sunil, and Safeel but emphasised that the team’s philosophy is built on collective effort rather than individual brilliance.
“We have a balanced squad with experienced players as well as talented youngsters. Players like Christo, Sunil, and Safeel bring quality, experience, and leadership to the team. Rather than depending on one or two individuals, we believe in collective teamwork. Every player has an important role, and I am confident that several of them will make a strong impact.”
Although the Army team is not participating in the Calcutta Football League (CFL) this season, the coach is satisfied with the opportunities his players have had to prove themselves through practice matches and internal competitive sessions.
“Although we are not participating in the CFL, we have organised quality practice matches and internal competitive sessions. These give every player an opportunity to prove themselves and help us evaluate the strength and depth of the squad.”
One of the unique aspects of the Indian Army Football Team is that every member of the squad is an active serving soldier.
“Yes, all our players are serving personnel of the Indian Army. Along with performing their military duties, they train and compete at a high level. Their discipline, commitment, and professionalism are among our biggest strengths.”
With several Indian Super League (ISL) and I-League clubs participating in this year’s Durand Cup, Ramesh acknowledged the quality of the competition but remained optimistic about his team’s prospects.
“The Durand Cup is a highly competitive tournament, and we respect every opponent. We will take one match at a time, remain focused on our performance, and give our best in every game. We are confident of competing strongly against any team.”
He also welcomed the participation of Services teams from other countries, describing it as an important step towards improving the tournament’s quality and fostering international sporting ties.
“It is a positive development for the tournament. Playing against international Services teams provides valuable exposure and helps raise the standard of competition. It is also an excellent opportunity to strengthen sporting relationships through football.”
Addressing changes within the squad and coaching staff, Ramesh said such transitions are a normal part of football and that the newcomers have adapted well to the team’s environment.
“Yes, there have been some changes, which are a natural part of any football team. We have welcomed new players and staff who have adapted well. Our focus remains on building a strong team culture and maintaining high standards.”
The coach also praised the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) for its contribution to Indian sports, highlighting its role in nurturing athletes who have gone on to excel at national and international levels.
“The Services Sports Control Board has played a vital role in Indian sports. It provides excellent infrastructure, coaching, and opportunities for athletes to develop while serving the nation. Many outstanding national and international sportspersons have emerged through this system, and we are proud to be part of it.”
Looking ahead to the tournament, Ramesh confirmed that Bhabindra Malla Thakuri will captain the Army side this season.
“Malla will lead the team as our captain this year. He is an experienced player who leads by example with his discipline, commitment, and leadership qualities. We have full confidence in his ability to guide the team throughout the tournament.”
With preparations complete and confidence running high, the Indian Army Football Team will aim to make a strong statement in the Durand Cup, carrying the hopes and pride of the Services into one of Indian football’s most celebrated competitions.
L. Antony Ramesh is the head coach of the Indian Army Football Team (IAFT), an AFC A Licence coach, and a former accomplished footballer with over seven years of coaching experience. He has achieved the rare distinction of winning the Santosh Trophy as both a player and a coach, and is renowned for building disciplined, tactically organised teams that consistently perform at the highest level, including in the Durand Cup.Ramesh recently served as the coach of I-League 2nd Division side Sudeva Delhi FC.
(Image courtesy: IAFT)
