The architect of India’s three consecutive AFC U-17 Asian Cup appearances (2018, 2020*, and 2023), Bibiano Fernandes has cemented his legacy as a linchpin in the nation’s youth football development. Under his guidance, countless prodigies have made the leap to professional football and even earned spots in the senior national team. Now, steering the U-20 squad, Bibiano embarks on a fresh chapter in his illustrious coaching career. His first mission? Conquering the SAFF U-19 Championship in Yupia, Arunachal Pradesh. With grander ambitions on the horizon—like the AFC U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers and the ultimate dream of reaching the FIFA U-20 World Cup—Bibiano is well aware of the arduous path ahead, but one he is no stranger to.
Journey to the SAFF U-19 Championship Triumph
Q: Congratulations on the SAFF U-19 Championship victory! Can you walk us through the preparations that led to this success?
Bibiano Fernandes: Thank you. Preparations kicked off in March, and the groundwork was meticulous. Most of the boys were already training with ISL first teams, with some even making their debuts. The scouting team deserves immense credit—they did a phenomenal job identifying and bringing in top talents for the trials.
We had a vast pool of players to evaluate in a limited time frame, but the quality on display was truly impressive. What gave us an edge was their exposure to high-level training environments, which played a pivotal role in how they handled the pressure, especially during the final.
Gearing Up for the AFC U-20 Asian Cup Qualifiers
Q: The AFC U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers loom ahead. What are your primary goals heading into this crucial phase?
Bibiano: Our focus is to maintain this winning momentum. Extensive scouting and providing the boys with meaningful exposure are top priorities. Exposure isn’t just about matches—it’s about immersing them in diverse football cultures.
Whether it’s facing Arab nations or Southeast Asian teams, each region brings a unique style. Competing against varied opponents and understanding different tactical systems will be key. We have time to strategize, and with the right preparation, I believe these boys can take us to the next stage.
Bridging the Gap to Global Football
Q: You’ve often spoken about the dream of qualifying an Indian age-group team for the World Cup. What gaps remain to turn this dream into reality?
Bibiano: From my experience with past U-17 and U-20 squads, one glaring gap has been game intelligence. While technical and physical standards are improving—evidenced by our performance against teams like Japan in the AFC Championship—decision-making in critical moments still needs work.
This can only be honed by playing more high-intensity, meaningful matches at younger age levels—U-13, U-15, U-17. The more game-time they get, the sharper they become. That’s where our focus must lie.
Leading with a Team-First Approach
Q: Managing a squad of young talents comes with immense pressure. How do you handle it?
Bibiano: It’s never a one-man show. I’m fortunate to have an incredible team—analysts, support staff, and more—who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Their contributions make my job easier and have been invaluable in executing our playing philosophy.
Even during selections, we had talented players who couldn’t deliver consistently in training. Those who made the cut showed unwavering commitment. That’s what we reward.
Sustaining Success in Senior Football
Q: Many young talents shine early but fade over time. What’s your advice to these promising players to ensure longevity?
Bibiano: The players from my previous batches who are excelling in the ISL today share one trait—they know how to work hard. Hard work is a talent in itself. It’s not just about skill.
In age-group football, you can stand out due to a limited talent pool. But in senior football, the competition is fierce. If you don’t give 100% in training every day, it’s nearly impossible to survive at that level. My message is clear: train the way you want to play. Matchday performance reflects your training intensity.
Importance of Competitive Leagues
Q: Heading into the AFC qualifiers, do you believe regular participation in structured leagues, like the I-League, is crucial for these players?
Bibiano: Absolutely. Nothing beats regular competitive matches. If these players can feature in the I-League and play 20 to 22 matches a season, they’ll be more than halfway ready for international competition. Facing experienced Indian and foreign players forces them to grow—tactically and mentally.
As India continues its pursuit of global recognition in youth football, Bibiano Fernandes remains at the forefront of this mission. His ability to craft cohesive teams, instill tactical discipline, and nurture raw talent has made him a cornerstone of the AIFF’s strategy. While the SAFF U-19 Championship was a strong start, the real challenges await—with the AFC U-20 Asian Cup qualifiers on the horizon and a grand vision of elevating Indian youth football to unprecedented heights.
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