Kolkata

Indian men’s football head coach Manolo Marquez expressed confidence that the team is in better physical condition ahead of their upcoming friendly against Vietnam on October 12. Marquez noted that the players are in better shape now than during pre-season, thanks to the ongoing Indian Super League (ISL) season. The team gathered in Kolkata and began their training over the weekend.

Marquez acknowledged that while some key players are missing, he believes the selected squad is the best for the Vietnam match. The squad includes newcomers like Aakash Sangwan and Lalrinliana Hnamte, along with the return of forward Farukh Choudhary after three years.

Originally scheduled as a tri-nation tournament, the friendly was modified after Lebanon withdrew. India will now face 116th-ranked Vietnam in a one-off match. Marquez sees a positive in the change, as it allows more time for preparation with extra training sessions.

The team is set to depart from Kolkata on Sunday night and arrive in Vietnam early Monday morning. Marquez praised the players’ attitude, highlighting that they and Vietnam are in similar physical condition, given both leagues are in their early stages. The match will take place at Thien Truong Stadium at 16:30 IST.