Field Vision

Manolo Marquez’s first two games as the India boss started in an unlikely manner.

India failed to win both their games at the Intercontinental Cup 2024 and as a result won’t be lifting the trophy which they took home last year in sensational fashion. Fans might have expected a different and new-look India under new head coach Manolo Marquez, but they will have to perhaps wait a few more days for that.

While playing an intercontinental competition, there is a required amount of training required, which the new think-tank could not ensure, keeping in mind the time was pretty short. Manolo received just two training sessions prior to the Mauritius game and another five before the Syria clash. Judging the team at this point, with a new setup, a new mindset, a new approach wouldn’t seem fair.

However, critics and fans can speak about the goods and bads from these two matches and discuss the possible changes demanded going ahead. In this article, we will not criticise the new maestro but rather have a minor discussion we think is suitable at this point. We’ll mention the goods first followed by the bads.

Goods

Better approach in second half

India undoubtedly were a better team in the second half across both the matches against Mauritius and Syria. A hardcore team-talk might have unfurled the hidden magic and taken Indian players by storm. Since the recent-most clash was against Syria, we’ll discuss a bit from that game. India lost the game 0-3 but, it wouldn’t have been surprising if the scoreline read 2-2 or even 2-1 in favour of the Blue Tigers.

From the absolute beginning of the second half, it was Manolo Marquez’s side who were trying to level the scores and dismantle Syria psychologically. The approach was clear – don’t let them settle and dismantle them. After the initial breakdown, it would have been easier for India to control the game. Syria, for most part of the clash, were seen waiting for India to make a mistake in their build-up and pounce back on counter-attacks. However, Manolo’s strategy prevented Syria from doing so for at least until the 80th minute. To be noted, India conceded the last two goals after that.

Proper substitutions implemented

The first half didn’t see India create much chances (apart from the dying stages) and they was a lack in certain areas which we’ll discuss later in the article. Manolo however, addressed them right. One major problem was Nikhil Poojary’s contribution. The tactician rightfully brought Asish Rai, who had impressed against Mauritius as well. His inclusion helped India up their intent from the right channel and added a defensive solidity to the likes of Rahul Bheke and Anwar Ali.

The Indian midfield seemed somewhat lost (or confused) too! Sahal Abdul Samad was pressing high up the pitch and his counterparts Jeakson Singh and Suresh Singh were standing way back. Okay! That might be a strategy but how does that help? A double pivot standing next to each other and not complementing themselves? Jeakson’s positioning was at question and perhaps Manolo would have thought why he started with Suresh in the first place! He changed his approach, brought in Apuia in the second half. Apuia’s inclusion not only added a bit of help to Jeakson but also ensured India kept the ball ticking around.

Bads

Error in shape early on

Football is an easy game, players make it difficult at times. The first 40-45 minutes, no proper shape was visible in the Indian team. Manvir Singh and Sahal kept on pressing, far back sat Jeakson and Suresh, Lallianzuala Chhangte got bullied and Nandhakumar Sekar tried at times. There were moments when the gap between the three thirds of the pitch were too much from each other. A proper shape not only helps in the build-up but also in outwitting counter-attacks from the opposition. Syria exploited India through counters and it would have been a miracle if they failed to win in that case.

Moreover, during the build-up, there were times when Suresh was being covered by two Syrian players. And where was Jeakson? Hard to locate from the TV screen. Jeakson should have be there to break the pattern the Syrian players were using to bully Suresh and snatch the ball from him, but his absence meant Bheke or Anwar Ali had to go long, and when you play long aerial balls, they are always 50-50 in nature. Anyone can get hold of them.

More forwards should have been called up

If we look at the teamsheet, Manvir Singh started, and there were no other proper forwards on the bench. Yes, Manvir plays as a winger for Mohun Bagan, at times as a wing-back too, but he always wanted to play as a No.9. He started in both the games and that too without proper rest in the first clash as only a few days back he played in the Durand Cup final. What’s the use of calling up Kiyan Nassiri and David Lalhlansanga to the squad? Why wasn’t Rahim Ali called up? Yes, Rahim is yet to prove himself, but he has shown he has quality in the games against Kuwait and Qatar. Where is Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia? Is he still injured? Well, this is the only major allegation against up, but of course, there’s absolutely no doubt about his prowess and vision. Maybe in the future, he will come up with these players and try to figure out the best fit for his team. Manvir as of now, needs to deliver more if he wants the Spaniard to consider continuing with him.