India vs Panama: Jamil Calls for ‘More Matches Like This’ Ahead of Bengaluru Clash

Xtratime Webdesk: India head coach Khalid Jamil believes the upcoming friendly against Panama will provide his team with an important opportunity to test themselves against a stronger opponent as he continues to shape a new-look national side.

India will face Panama in Bengaluru on Friday, with Jamil admitting that the Central American side will pose a serious challenge. He praised Panama’s quality across the pitch and highlighted their experienced players and coaching setup.

“Panama is a very good team. They have played good in all matches; only results were not in favour of them,” Jamil said.

The Indian coach has also used the recent international window to bring younger players into the squad, while retaining experience in the form of Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Manvir Singh and Anirudh Thapa. Several senior names, including Sandesh Jhingan and Lallianzuala Chhangte, have been left out this time, although Jamil made it clear that the door remains open for them.

“They are most welcome to be back again,” he said, explaining that the aim is to develop a “good, solid team.”

Jamil also believes India need more matches against stronger opponents to improve. “If you play more with a stronger team, improvement will be there. This is one step ahead; we need to play more matches like this,” he said.

The coach was also asked about Carlo Ancelotti’s recent assessment that India lacks a football culture, a factor he linked to some of the country’s footballing struggles. Jamil chose not to enter the debate.

“Everybody has their own opinion. I cannot say anything, but I’m thinking about tomorrow’s game. Then we’ll see next,” he said.

With Panama expected to test India defensively, Jamil does not intend to simply sit back. “You cannot defend all the time,” he said, suggesting that India will look to balance defensive discipline with attacking intent depending on the situation.

For Jamil, however, the immediate priority remains simple, i.e. to get the team ready for the challenge and see what they can produce against Panama.