Indian women's Under-17 football coach Thomas Dennerby opens up on tough Italy test | OneFootball

Indian women's football team head coach, Thomas Dennerby has reiterated that Italy would be a tough nut to crack as the women's Under-17 side face the European giants in preparation for the Under-17 World Cup.

India are taking part in the 6th Torneo Female Football Tournament in Italy from June 22-26 in at the Gradisca d'lsonzo Stadium and will face Italy in their opening fixture as they look to prepare for the U-17 World Cup which takes place in India during October-November.

Dennerby believes that Italy will provide tough resistance, but his priority is not the result but the overall progress of the team.

"We are playing Italy, and it is bound to be a tough game. The only expectation is to have a good performance. I am not thinking about the result, I want to see how the team develops. The players are adapting with each day, and they understand how we need to play in, and against different styles. This is the first real game the girls will play. Hopefully, we will have a good game," he said ahead of the opening game.

"I have respect for the opponents, and this is a really good start for the team. It will show us the work we need to build on until the World Cup starts in October," Dennerby added.

After their stint in Italy, the Young Tigresses will travel to Norway to participate in the Open Nordic Tournament WU16 from July 1-7.