FIFA U-17 WC: Dennerby appointed Indian women's head coach

He guided Sweden to a 3rd place finish in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2011, and a quarter-final spot in the 2012 London Olympics. He also coached in the European Championships in 2013 and 2017, FIFA Women's World Cup 2015, and 2016 Rio Olympics.

On Saturday, high profile Thomas Dennerby has been appointed as India's head coach by the All India Football Federation for FIFA U-17 World Cup slated to kick-off on November 3, 2020.

READ | Football: India Drop To 106 In The FIFA Rankings After B'desh Draw

'Big challenge to coach India'

On his new role Dennerby said: “It is a big challenge to be coaching the host of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup India 2020. I am extremely humbled and grateful to AIFF for giving me the responsibility to groom the team for the World Cup. There are 12 months still left for the mega event and that with my experience of having coached in World Cups, Olympics, European Championships, I would be able to stitch them into a formidable team. The optimism and cooperation among all in the Federation makes me feel we will achieve it together.”

READ | Andre Gomes Thanks Everton Supporters And Colleagues After Surgery

 AIFF general secretary Kushal Das said: “Indian women’s football would immensely benefit under Thomas Dennerby. His credentials as a coach is sure to add immense value to the players, and the overall ecosystem of women’s football in India. I am sure he will help U-17 Women’s team evolve into mature players in their quest to bring further glory to women’s football in India.”

READ | Wenger Contradicts Bayern Munich's Claim That They Turned Him Down

His last assignment was with the Nigerian senior women’s national team where he coached the Super Falcons in the FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019. He also guided the Nigerian women to win the AWCON 2018, and was awarded the 2018 Coach of the Year in Nigeria. Sweden are currently ranked 5 in the FIFA Ranking, while Nigeria are at 36.

READ | Gateway Of India Illuminated With Official Emblem For FIFA U17 WC 2020