Suresh Singh Wangjam opens up on India's preparation ahead of AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

The Blue Tigers will be facing Thailand and Hong Kong in June.

As team India gears up for the upcoming friendly against Thailand and crucial AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers clash against Hong Kong, midfielder Suresh Singh Wangjam shared his thoughts on the team’s preparations. While India only managed to earn a draw against Bangladesh in their opening Qualifiers encounter, the road ahead to qualification will involve games against Singapore and Hong Kong.

A player known for his tireless work rate and calm presence in midfield, the Bengaluru FC player stressed the importance of focus ahead of the upcoming games. While calling for unity, and day-by-day improvement, Suresh called for India to eye a spot in the continental showpiece.

A tough game for India against Hong Kong

While speaking to the media ahead of the qualifiers, Suresh acknowledged the quality of the Hong Kong side and the challenge of playing them away from home.

He stated, “I met them in Kolkata during the last Asia Cup qualifiers. They are a well-organised team, and it’s going to be a tough game, especially since we are playing away. But we are preparing well. It’s been 4–5 sessions already, and we’re looking sharper every day. It’s a crucial game because only one team will qualify from the group, so every point counts.”

The bigger goal is qualification for the AFC Asian Cup 2027

While talking about India’s previous meeting with Hong Kong and the intense competition last time around, Suresh understands the stakes are even higher this time around. However, Suresh believes a methodical and focused approach will be key to success for India this time around.

Suresh added, “Our long-term goal is, of course, to qualify for the Asia Cup. But right now, it’s all about taking things game by game. Our immediate focus is only on Hong Kong.”

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Suresh Singh believes Thailand friendly to be a good test

Before facing a crucial encounter in the qualifiers, India will play an international friendly against Thailand. The fixture against the War Elephants is something Suresh believes will be a valuable assessment of their preparation and match sharpness.

He shared, “Thailand is a very good team and, in my opinion, a similar level to Hong Kong. So it will be a very good test for us. After a long domestic season, we had a 15–20 day break and started camp on the 18th. Slowly, we’re getting back in shape and regaining form. This friendly will show us exactly where we stand before the qualifiers.”

Focus for India will be on their own performance

India’s upcoming opponents are coming off a recent confidence boosting win over Afghanistan, but Suresh remains focussed on the game ahead.

He stated, “Yes, they won their last game and may feel confident, but we are focusing on ourselves. We’ve been analysing them, and we’ll stick to our plan. Once we go out there, we’ll see what happens.”

While expressing gratitude toward Indian football fans, whose unwavering support continues to fuel the team’s spirit, Suresh shared, “Fans are always behind us, through thick and thin. We just ask them to continue supporting us, and we’ll give our best.”

As India embarks on another crucial qualifying campaign, the words of Suresh Singh Wangjam reflect the mindset of a young team that’s determined, grounded, and focused on the upcoming games. With players like Suresh anchoring the midfield, the Blue Tigers will hope to carry that spirit into their upcoming matches and take a significant step toward AFC Asian Cup qualification.

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