Urbanyi Urges Patience as Maldives Seek Progress Through International Exposure

Maldives head coach Istvan Urbanyi believes regular international competition is the key to the national team’s development, insisting that short-term setbacks are a necessary part of the country’s footballing progress.

Speaking after Maldives’ 3-0 defeat to Pakistan in the Diamond Jubilee International Football Tournament, Urbanyi said the team must continue playing stronger opponents despite the difficult results.

“What I can tell is progress is coming only if we play international matches,” Urbanyi said. “I knew this was going to be a tough one.”

The Hungarian coach stressed that development cannot be achieved without exposing players to challenging matches on a consistent basis. According to Urbanyi, results alone should not dictate the team’s long-term approach.

“If we can play another tournament like this next week and lose three matches again, I will say no problem, let’s play,” he said. “And if another one comes and we lose another three matches, I will still say no problem, let’s play.”

Urbanyi believes that repeated exposure to international football is essential if Maldives are to close the gap on their regional rivals.

“Then the progress will happen. That’s the nature of the game,” he added.

Maldives have endured a difficult campaign in the Diamond Jubilee Tournament, suffering defeats in their opening two matches. However, the coach’s comments reflect a focus on long-term development rather than immediate results.

The hosts will conclude their tournament campaign against Bangladesh on Sunday, looking to end the competition on a positive note and build momentum for future international assignments.