World Cup a first international experience for many Maldives U15 players; coach says facing strong teams a huge benefit

The Maldives U15 national football team's participation in the U15 World Cup will be the first international experience for many of the players selected, and the opportunity to face strong teams will be a major advantage for their future, according to the team's coach, Ahmed Shakir (Shakitte). Speaking to 'Sun' during the final preparations before the team departs for Azerbaijan for the tournament, Shakir noted that the squad was selected from players who tried out for both the U15 and U17 age groups, with the most promising chosen. With the exception of one player, all the selected athletes were born in 2011, while one player born in 2012 will also be part of the squad. Shakir emphasised that competing against teams like France, which are several levels above the Maldives, will provide an invaluable experience for the players. He highlighted that this is particularly important as many of the players are making their international debut, and the tournament will serve as a significant stepping stone for their careers. "This is an opportunity that is not often available," Shakir said. "Especially to play against teams from Europe that are not at our level. It is a very good experience for these players. For these players, who are going to an international tournament for the first time, playing against such strong teams will bring great benefits for their future." In the tournament, which starts today, the Maldives have been placed in Group A alongside Angola, Estonia, France, Kosovo, and South Africa. Their first match is scheduled for Sunday against South Africa.