Maldives U-20 coach István Urbányi has urged patience and better preparation after the team’s difficult start to the SAFF U-20 Championship.

The Maldives has yet to win a match, losing to Sri Lanka and drawing with Bhutan. Speaking after the latest game, Urbani said expectations were raised too high for a young team that is still developing.

He stressed that players need more training, experience, and a proper environment to compete at regional level. Urbani also highlighted challenges faced during Ramadan preparations, noting disruptions to players’ schedules.

Despite the results, Urbányi said he sees potential in the squad and emphasized the need for long-term planning to develop players into professionals capable of competing in tough tournaments.