The Philippine Men’s National Football Team is undergoing significant changes in preparation for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, with new head coach Tom Saintfiet at the helm. A total of 34 players have been called up to participate in a training camp, indicating a potential shift in the team’s lineup for the qualifiers.
The list of called-up players includes established names such as Kevin Ingreso, Justin Baas, Audie Menzi, Jesus Milleza, and Daisuke Sato, who previously played in the first window of the qualifiers last November. Additionally, Kaya FC-Iloilo stars Jovin Bedic and Jarvey Gayoso, as well as goalkeeper Quincy Kammeraad, will join the team for the training camp.
The upcoming training camp represents a significant milestone for the Philippine Men’s National Football Team as they navigate a period of transition under new leadership. This adjustment comes as the team prepares to face Iraq in the March window of the qualifiers, with both home and away games on the horizon.
Despite a challenging start in the qualifiers, including a 2-0 loss to Vietnam and a 1-1 draw against Indonesia, the Philippines remains committed to securing their spot in the next phase of the competition. The team’s performance in the upcoming matches against Iraq will play a crucial role in shaping their journey in the qualifiers as they aim to climb the ranks in Group F.
In addition to the coaching change and player call-ups, the Philippine Men’s National Football Team has also bid farewell to the Azkals moniker, symbolizing a new chapter for the team. These developments signify a period of transformation and renewal as the team sets its sights on a fresh start under the guidance of their new head coach.
The training session during the camp will be a momentous occasion for both fans and the media, providing an opportunity to witness the team’s preparation firsthand. Scheduled to take place on March 1, 2024, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, the session promises to offer insight into the team’s progress as they work towards their future goals.
With the Philippines aiming to make an impact in the upcoming qualifiers, the training camp serves as a crucial juncture for the team to regroup, refine their strategies, and reinforce their collective determination to succeed on the international stage. As they embark on this new phase, the Philippine Men’s National Football Team is poised for a period of transformation and growth, guided by the vision and leadership of their new coach, Tom Saintfiet.
(With reports from Paolo del Rosario)
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