"We have 7 favorites" said Petar Segrt speaking in the press conference of SAFF Suzuki Cup.

When asked that India is sending their under 20 squad this year, Segrt also mentioned India under 20's win over Argentina and that India has a huge population to choose from unlike Maldives, which is a very small country. "we must respect India, come on be honest! I don't know how much population India has, we have 3-4 hundred thousand, Come one, when you see our players in the last days, we have 27 that is 7-6 percent of all players in the Maldives" He said. "Be realistic" he said speaking about the population of Bangladesh and that they are also hosts. About Pakistan he said, "They have so many refugees, playing in Europe". Sri Lanka has developed so much in the last few months according to The Maldivian Head Coach.

"For me it's too early to speak who is favorites, who is that or what we are!" 

When asked about Ali Ashfaq(Dhagandey), Segrt said that He was brought to Maldives to change the generation. "It would be difficult to change a generation with players who are 33, 36 or 37. The coach also said Ali Ashfaq apologized in front of Bassam Adeel Jaleel and himself but it was too late. By the the registration was closed.

The the press conference Segrt repeatedly praised Ashfaq and did not rule him out of future selection. He said he has selected a very young team including a 17 year old. 17 year old Yameen had not made a single appearance in his local club Green Streets when Petar Segrt selected him. He is the youngest ever Maldivian International. Previous record was held by Fazeel (Oppo) who had played many top tier games before being selected in the National Squad.