Kolkata: Brazil under-17 football team coach Carlos Amadeu wants to reclaim the FIFA U-17 World Cup title after a hiatus of 14 years at the majestic Salt Lake Stadium here October 28.
“I’ve heard about the football madness in Kolkata and I’ve been there during the draw ceremony. It is a huge stadium with a beautiful history. Since then I’m dreaming about the final and about winning the trophy,” Amadeu told this agency after arriving Tuesday morning in Mumbai.
The U-17 World Cup title has eluded Brazil since 2003. Having won the title thrice in the past, the South American country is just behind title holders and four-time champions Nigeria, who have failed to qualify for the upcoming edition.
Amadeu took charge of the Brazil U-17 side in May 2015 in the lead-up to the World Cup in Chile that year, where he steered the team to the last eight before being eliminated by eventual champions Nigeria.
However, he was quick to point out that competition will be tough this time around. “The European teams, USA and Mexico are really strong this year. There are too many teams fighting for the title,” the Brazilian pointed out.
Talking about Indian football, Amadeu had some words of advice for the host nation and said they can benefit from a football powerhouse like Brazil by way of exchange programmes.
“Players from India have the bio-type to play football, they are fast and have a good technique. In a country of such huge population, I’m sure India could build a beautiful history in football,” pointed out Amadeu.
“My advice is to watch closely countries like Brazil, who can bring professionals with know-how. Also Indian professionals should travel around the world and participate in exchange programmes,” he added.
The 52-year-old has put in well-designed hard work into practice for last two years, the result of which was evident in their dominant performance in the U-17 South American Championships in March.
Latest Brazilian teenage sensation Vinicius Junior was the leading goal scorer (7) and the player of the tournament as they won seven of their matches and drew the other two en route to the title.
With his club Flamengo playing the final of the Copa do Brasil September 27, Vincius Jr will join the team later this month.
“It’s the result of hard work, two years of preparation and a well-designed philosophy,” Amadeu said. “This has been our goal since we started to work for the national team. I hope we can continue playing this type of football and being competitive as well, though it’s not easy as other teams are studying us,” added the coach.
Press Trust of India
