‘NOT UNDER PRESSURE TO WIN TITLE’

Germany may be the senior world champions but that doesn’t obligate them to win the Under-17 World Cup, coach Christian Wueck said, insisting their primary aim is to aid in player development.

“We are under no pressure to win titles. Our first aim is to develop players for the senior team,” Wueck said here.

He expects Colombia to be a tough opposition.

“Colombia has fast, strong players.”

Wueck said Delhi’s weather will help them perform to their optimum level, admitting they struggled to cope with Iran, losing 0-4.

“Humidity less in Delhi than Kochi which is good for us. Our players were tired to play matches in Kochi’s heat. They needed time to rejuvenate.

“Iran were better (that day). Iran are a very good team, very strong and compact. The climate is also different.”

While acknowledging India’s encouraging display in the tournament, he said the players should continue their development in clubs. The All India Football Federation has already signed 12 of India’s squad for their Arrows team, to play in the ILeague from Novermber.

“It is important for the young players to play in clubs. They need to play competitive matches for development.”

Colombia coach Orlando Restrepo said their performance has “developed with each match”.