Kourosh Beramak, as the head coach of Afghanistan's under-20 football team, spoke about the challenges and opportunities facing this team in the path of growth and development of football in the country. He believes that with the implementation of a long-term plan, Afghanistan can become a major power in Asian football.
Challenges in Afghan football
Beramak mentioned the limitations and weaknesses in Afghan football, stating: "We faced a losing mentality and most of the youth and senior teams were concentrated in one area. This situation prevented players from making the necessary progress." He also referred to the collaboration between the Afghan Football Federation and the Physical Education Organization, adding: "We went to Bahrain with 80% readiness, but due to late action, we couldn't have enough international friendly matches. Instead, we played five friendly matches with Afghanistan's senior teams and achieved high-scoring results."
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The potential of Afghan football in the future
Beramak emphasized that with long-term planning, Afghanistan can become the number one power in Asian football, stating: "If we implement the model of Iran's youth teams in Afghanistan and have a program for all age groups, we can achieve desirable results. This potential exists in Afghan football." He also mentioned his suggestion to the Afghan Football Federation to hire a youth team and stressed the need for continuity in the activities of national teams at the grassroots level.
The coach of Saipa added: "Afghan football faces challenges such as a lack of facilities and political issues, but the changes we have made in planning and training can help advance this sport. Especially since currently, three to four thousand fans attend the Afghanistan Champions League matches, indicating public interest in football."
Beramak concluded by stating: "Considering that Afghan football is concentrated in Kabul and the Champions League of this country lasts for three months with 10 teams, it is necessary for the Afghan Football Federation to continue its activities and avoid any interruptions in the programs. We cannot form a team two months before the matches. If this trend continues, Afghan football can become the number one power in Asia within five to ten years."
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