Don’t tell Dastgir he’s too young to coach Afghanistan

KUALA LUMPUR: Afghanistan’s Anoush Dastgir (pic) is one of the youngest head coaches in international football at the age of 29 and he’s relishing his role.

Dastgir, who has the experience of coaching youth teams in Holland since he was 18, said he saw his leadership role as a welcome challenge since taking over from German coach Otto Pfister last year.

“It’s not easy to manage the team because most of the players are based in Europe and we don’t have a league in Afghanistan,” said Dastgir from Kabul.

“A local league is essential for the development of football. Most of our players are used to cold conditions, so they struggle in searing conditions.

“I’m learning the ropes, but I’m hoping for my country to have a league soon.”

Without a proper league, Dastgir said it would be tough for foreign coaches as they would have to start from scratch.

Some of the players in his team are older than him but he says it’s not a problem because he used to play with them in the national team.

“Age is no barrier because if one loves the sport and knows how to mingle with the players, one can build a good relationship and trust.”

Under Dastgir, Afghanistan have won one match, drew one and lost three in international tournaments.

Afghanistan lost 0-5 to Oman and 1-2 to Malaysia in the Airmarine Cup but Dastgir summed up the defeats as good lessons.

The Central Asian side only gathered one day before the tournament and endured a 20-hour flight to reach Malaysia.