Football is one of the fastest growing sports in terms of popularity in Hyderabad says Victor Amalraj one of the most articulate experts on the game in the twin cities. As an example he quotes the instance of the recently held Confederations Cup tournament which was widely followed by the youth here.
“Thanks to television, school and college going children are increasingly exposed to the game at the highest level and can watch the greats of the game in action. Unlike them, we never had the opportunity to watch our idols like Pele, Garrincha, Zico and others playing the game,” he says.
“Youngsters nowadays have tremendous knowledge of the sport and closely follow the fortunes of their favourite clubs playing in various European leagues. Spain after its dazzling display, has become the favourite team of the youth in Hyderabad. Moreover the continuing excellence of Spain and the re-emergence of Brazil indicate a trend in football that Indian players - especially players form the south - should take note of. There is a definite swing toward the skill component of the game as against the element of speed and power,” explains Amalraj.
“I have been advising my trainees to analyse the final match of the Confederations Cup and try to understand the methods employed by these two teams. This will be the trend of the future and it is something that Indian players can replicate since it is not dependent only upon speed and stamina,” he says.
“By using its short passing game to perfection, Spain has been able to win all the major trophies namely the Word up, The European title, Olympics and Under-21, except the Confederations Cup. The Spanish style of play is something that Indian players can also copy. They depend upon short passes and keeping possession of the ball .They have a slow and methodical build up in midfield and then make a sudden strike after creating a opening at the top of the box. This style is ideal for Indian players,” says Amalraj.
“We should also analyse the factors which helped Brazil to beat Spain in the final. Brazil exhibited their Samba flair and never allowed Spain to settle into their tightly controlled passing game. But I hope Spain will take stock of the situation and look to comeback stronger in the coming FIFA World Cup. And in the meantime all of us Indians involved with football – both players and coaches – should continue to watch and learn from the tactics that are employed at the international level,” concludes Amalraj.
