New Delhi, Aug 11 (Reporter) With India’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers still fresh in memory, Manolo Marquez’s new role as the head coach of the Indian men’s national football team brings a sense of urgency and determination. Marquez's primary mission now is to guide the team through the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers—a challenge that will require both tactical acumen and mental resilience. The 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, set to begin in March 2025, are a crucial milestone for Indian football. The qualifiers will feature 24 teams divided into six groups of four, with the top teams securing a spot in the prestigious tournament to be held in Saudi Arabia. For Marquez, this is more than just another tournament; it’s an opportunity to solidify India’s place on the Asian football map. "The target now is obviously to qualify for the AFC Asian Cup if we speak about competitions,” Marquez said in his maiden press conference since taking over as the head coach of the senior men’s national team. "But beyond that, the goal is to improve the level of the Indian players, to reach the next step individually and as a team. We need to improve." Marquez has a clear plan in mind as he prepares for the qualifiers. With three FIFA International Match Windows scheduled between September and November, he has the opportunity to test his strategies and fine-tune the team’s dynamics. The journey begins with the Intercontinental Cup in September, where India will face Mauritius and Syria, followed by the Tri-Nation tournament in October, where they will take on Lebanon and hosts Vietnam. These matches are more than just friendly encounters; they are critical for building team cohesion and identifying the right mix of players who can execute Marquez’s vision on the pitch. “We will have six or seven games before the first qualifier in March. It’s about preparation and finding the correct people to grow as a team. We need players who play for the team, not individually,” Marquez emphasised. One of the key areas Márquez is focusing on is the mental strength of his players. He believes that no matter how skilled or technically sound a player is, without the right mindset, success will be elusive. “We have to be stronger mentally. In football, technique is very important. Tactics are very important. Physical condition is very important, but if the head doesn't work, you can do nothing in life, not just football,” he remarked. This mental toughness will be crucial as India navigates the pressure-filled environment of the qualifiers. Marquez’s experience with Indian players during his time in the Indian Super League (ISL) has given him insight into the cultural and psychological aspects of the game, which he believes will be vital in shaping a winning team. One of the strategic objectives for Marquez is to ensure that India remains in Pot 1 for the December draw of the qualifiers. Being in Pot 1 would provide a more favorable draw, potentially easing India’s path to qualification. Marquez is aware of the importance of this positioning and is working diligently to prepare the team for the challenge. “It’s not just about playing games; it’s about making sure we are in the best possible position before the draw. The players need to understand their roles and how they contribute to the team’s overall strategy. We have to play in the style that we want and make sure we are fully prepared for what lies ahead,” he said. While the immediate focus is on the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, Márquez is also thinking long-term. He understands that for India to compete consistently at the highest levels, there needs to be a sustained effort to develop talent and build a robust footballing infrastructure. “In this situation, we are playing friendly matches and need to prepare for more important matches ahead. But finally, it's about preparation and finding the correct people to grow as a team,” Márquez explained. His vision extends beyond just winning matches; it’s about creating a culture of excellence within the Indian national team. As the qualifiers approach, Marquez is confident but realistic. He knows that the road to the AFC Asian Cup will be challenging, but with the right preparation, strategy, and mindset, India can achieve its goals. The coming months will be crucial as he works to mold the Blue Tigers into a cohesive unit capable of taking on the best teams in Asia. For Marquez, this journey is not just about qualifying for a tournament; it’s about leaving a lasting legacy in Indian football—a legacy that inspires future generations and elevates the sport in a country with immense potential. As he guides the team through the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, all eyes will be on Manolo Márquez and the Blue Tigers, hoping that this new chapter in Indian football will be one of success and growth...////...