Vietnam to play Malaysia in Under 21 tournament opening match

Vietnam play Malaysia in the opener of the 2011 U.21 International Football Tournament in the Central Highlands town of Pleiku on September 25.

 

According to the fixtures announced by Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) on Wednesday, Vietnam, Malaysia and Qatari sports center Aspire are in Group A while Iran, Thailand and Singapore are in Group B.

The teams will play round robin league matches and the best two teams from each group will play in the semifinals of the fifth edition of the football event sponsored by Thanh Nien.

The tournament, which offers a total cash prize of US$50,000, will run until October 4.

Vietnam club demands $2m from Atletico Madrid's new player

Though he is offically with Spain’s top-tier club Atlectico Madrid now, Nigerian striker Samson Kayode Olaleye must pay the Vietnamese football club Hanoi T&T at least US$2 million if he wants to play in Europe.

Olaleye is in trouble because he received a large amount of cash from Hanoi T&T and signed a memorandum of understanding with this team, which said he would play for them after completing his contract with Dong Thap at the end of the 2011 season.

The 22-year-old Nigerian footballer was a key striker of V-League club Dong Thap in the 2010 and 2011 seasons; and is considered one of the best players in the tournament.

His excellent performance attracted the attention of some brokers who recommended him to Atlectico Madrid, who signed a contract with him as a free player a couple of weeks ago because his contract with Dong Thap had ended.

After signing with him, Atlectico Madrid lent Olaleye to Portugal’s club Sporting Braga for a season and his name is now on the list of the Portuguese club although he still hasn't received a shirt number.

However, despite leaving Vietnam before the 2011 V-League season ended late last month, Olaleye can’t play for Sporting Braga because the Vietnam Football Federation hasn’t issued an International Transfer Certificate (ITC) to him.

On learning about Olaleye’s signing with Aletico, Hanoi T&T’s first reaction was to inform Vietnam Football Federation of the case and to ask the federation not to issue an ITC to the Nigerian striker unless he compensates the club for breaking the agreement.

According to Hanoi T&T, six months before Olaleye’s contract with Dong Thap ended, Hanoi T&T talked with the Nigerian player through broker Tran Tien Dai.

Olaleye agreed to play for Hanoi T&T for three years with a monthly salary of $10,000. He also received $300,000 in advance for agreeing to play for the club. He and broker Tran Tien Dai signed a memorandum of understanding for those terms and more.

Despite agreeing to play for Hanoi T&T, Olaleye also nodded when another team, Binh Duong, suggested talks about his future. He didn’t sign any paper with Binh Duong but he is said to have received a  large amount of cash from the 2007-08 V-League champs as well.

Later, however, Olaleye seems to have conveniently forgotten his agreements in Vietnam when he signed with Spain’s capital club.

Without an ITC, the Nigerian striker cannot play in Europe. That was why he returned to Vietnam last week to discuss the problem with Hanoi T&T.

Hanoi T&T President Nguyen Quoc Hoi said, “Samson Kayode Olaleye can go but things must be settled in accordance with the rules. He was wrong, so rules must be applied.

“He must pay Hanoi T&T at least two million US dollars and other additional fines. Only then can he become a free player.”

Myanmar announce training squad for SEA Games

The Myanmar Football Federation (MFF) have announced a training squad of 45 players in preparation for the 26^th SEA Games which will be hosted by Indonesia in November.

Other than relying on several veterans who have played at the last two SEA Games, the MFF have also included numerous young players who have made an impact in the Myanmar National League.

MYANMAR TRAINING SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS – Kyaw Zin Htet (KBZ), Pyae Phyo Aung (Southern), Hein  Kyaw Thu (Okkthar), Aung Wai Phyo (Magway), Thiha Sithu (Ayawaddy)

DEFENDERS – Yan Aung Win (Yangon), Kyaw Kyaw Myo, Nyar Na Lwin, Aye San (KBZ); Aung Hein Kyaw, Min Ko Ko, Shwe Hlaing Win (Zeyar); Zaw Zaw Oo (Ayawaddy), Zaw Min Htun (Magway), Ye Zaw Htet Aung (YDNB), Yan Myo Aung (Southern), Moe Win (NPT)

MIDFIELDERS – Thet Naing, Ye Ko Oo, Aung Myint Aye (YDNB); David Htan, Yan Aung Kyaw, Kyi Lynn (Yangon); Zaw Lin Htet, Naing Soe Wai, Kyaw Ko Ko, Min Chit Thu (Zeyar), Zaw Lin, Pyae Phyo Oo (NPT); Thein Than Win, Kyaw Zeyar Win (KBZ); Chit Ko Ko Htwe (ZKP), Hein Zar Aung (Magway), Thu Htet Paing (Rakhapura), Min Min Thu (Ayawaddy)

STRIKERS – Mine Aik Naing, Khaing Zaw Htun, Soe Min Oo (KBZ), Soe Paing Thway, Ye Waiyan Soe, Soe Myat Thu (Zeyar), Kaung Si Thu (Yangon), Aung Myint Myat (Manawmyay), Sa Htet Naing Win (NPT), Min Min Htun (Ayawaddy)

Thailand name training squad for SEA Games

Thailand have named a training squad of 33 players which will carry their challenge for the SEA Games 2011 which will be hosted by Indonesia in November.

The team has already started training last week.

The Thais, who were chasing their ninth crown in a row in Laos in 2009, did not even qualify for the semi-finals when they were denied by eventual champions Malaysia.

The FA of Thailand (FAT) have appointed Prapon Pongpanich from Bangkok United as the chief coach while Vithoon Kijmongkolsak will be the assistant.

THAILAND TRAINING SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS: Kawin Thammasatchanan (Muang Thong United), Ukrit Wongmeema (Buriram FC), Sompong Yod-Ard (Police United), Panupong Pichittham (Chainat FC)

DEFENDERS: Chalermsuk Kaewsuktae (Chainat FC), Thanapol Udomlarb (Bangkok FC), Sujarit Jantakul (Sriracha FC), Komkrit Camsokchuerk (Bangkok United), Seeket Madputeh (Pattaya United), Weerawut Kayem (Muang Thong United), Phonlawut Donjui (Bangkok United), Artit Daosawang (Suphanburi FC), Apichit Kamwang (BEC-Tero Sasana), Chalermikat Boonnet (Bangkok FC) 

MIDFIELDERS: Natarid Thammarossopon (BEC-Tero Sasana), Surachet Ngamtip (Chainat FC), Chatchai Narkwijit (Chiang Rai United), Naruphol Ar-Romsawa (Muang Thong United), Phuritad Jarikanon (Chonburi FC), Attapong Nooprom (Sriracha FC), Kornprom Jaroonpong (Phuket FC), Anusorn Srichaluang (Army United), Issarapong Lilakorn (PTT Rayong FC), Piyachart Srimaruang (Siam Navy FC), Assaming Mae (Police United), Anuwat Noichernphan (Army United)

STRIKERS: Adisak Kraisorn (Buriram PEA), Chayanan Pombuppha (Police United), Chakrit Rawanprakone (Burriam FC), Ronnachai Rangsyo (BEC-Tero Sasana), Sittiphan Chumchoy (TTM-Phichit), Patchaya Narach (Bangkok United), Kroerkrit Thawikan (Sriracha FC)

China beat Singapore 2-1

China beat Singapore 2-1 in a Group A clash in the 2014 World Cup third-round qualifier at high altitude in Kunming on Friday.

But it was the visitors who scored first, as Singapore's Aleksandar Duric took advantage of a defensive slip by the Chinese defence to give the Lions the lead in the 32nd minute.

China missed a penalty in the 56th minute, but converted another spot kick in the 69th minute and three minutes later were on target again to give them a 2-1 advantage.

It was tough for Singapore, with the Chinese playing at home in a stadium which is 1,900 metres above sea level.

The thin air makes it more difficult for players, but Singapore ensured they were not disadvantaged by this.

The Lions went there a week earlier to get acclimatised and that helped them to last the distance.

And kudos to how the visitors played. The Lions did not let the Chinese team, who played in the 2002 World Cup, affect their play.

Veteran player Aleksandar Duric, who at 41 years old still has the stamina and killer instincts, scored in the 32nd minute.

The Chinese, led by their new coach - former Spanish and Real Madrid manager Jose Camacho - finally got their act together late in the match.

To be fair they had a few chances but the post saved Singapore on two occasions.

In the end the Chinese played to their potential, but Singapore can take hope in their gutsy performance in Kunming.

It's not the end yet, as five more matches await the Singapore boys, the next one will be against Iraq at the Jalan Besar Stadium next Tuesday.

The Lions return to Singapore on Saturday and do not have much time to prepare for Tuesday's encounter.

But fans can expect another cracker of a game, especially with the Lions playing at home.

Singapore and Thailand go down fighting while Indonesea get hammered

Singapore and Thailand almost delivered upsets in their respective games of the third round of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers but in the end, had to be content with identical 2-1 losses to China and Australia respectively.

In matches that were all played away from home, Singapore fell 2-1 to China; Thailand also faltered 2-1 to Australia while Indonesia slumped to a 3-0 loss to Iran.

Veteran striker Aleksandr Duric gave the Lions the best of start on 33^rd minute at the Tuodong Sports Centre in Kunming but the hosts fought back with two goals in the second half for the win.

A penalty in the 69^th minute off  Zheng Zhi put the Chinese on level terms before Yu Hai ensured the full points for the home team four minutes later.

In the meantime, the Thais also had a fabulous start when they carved out the lead off Teerasil Dangda in the 14^th minute for them to be 1-0 in front at the half.

But the Aussies, buoyed by their fans at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, upped the tempo in the second half with a Joshua Kennedy’s goal in the 58^th minute.

Alex Brosque then completed the win for the homesters with the winner with four minutes remaining on the clock.

Indonesia on the other hand made up for their failure to score in the first half when they held Iran scoreless until after the restart.

Jevad Nekonam was quick to score the lead in the 53^rd minute before doubling the lead for Iran with his second goal of the evening on 74 minutes.

Andranik Timotian Samarani then wrapped things up for Iran with the third goal a minute to the end.

Cambodia to use BIDC Cup to prepare for SEA Games

The Football Federation of Cambodia (FFC) are using the Mekong Region Youth International Football Tournament for the BIDC Cup as part of their preparation for the SEA Games which will be hosted by Indonesia at the end of the year.

The tournament, which is sponsored by the Vietnam-based Bank for Investment and Development of Cambodia (BIDC), will see six teams battling it out on 8-16 October 2011.

“It’s a big boost for football development in the Mekong belt, and its timing will also help the preparations for the SEA Games in November,” said General Sao Sokha, the president of the FFC.

Following the draw which was held this week, hosts Cambodia have been placed in Group B against Laos and Myanmar.

Group A are Vietnam, Thailand and China’s Wuhan Hongxing FC.

“We started it in a small way, and now it has grown bigger,’’ said Nguyen Van Hien, the chief executive of BIDC.

“Our aim is to help development of football among young people in the Mekong region and, as a bank operating in three countries in the region; we are determined to support this effort.”

The champion of the BIDC Cup will earn USD20,000 with the runners-up to pocket USD15,000.

The two semi-finalists will be rewarded USD10,000 each with the top scorer set to win USD1,000.

Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia in confident mood for World Cup qualifiers

The three ASEAN teams – Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia – are in a good frame of mind despite having to open their campaign on the road in the third round of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers tomorrow.

Singapore will take on China; Thailand will play Australia while Indonesia will be tested by Iran in their respective matches of the qualifiers where each ASEAN teams will be looking for at least a draw playing away.

“It is the opening game of the third round (of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers) and of course we would like to get a good result where ultimately it will determine our position in the group,” said Radojko Avramovic, the chief coach of Singapore.

“But for me, I would just like the players to play their best and even if we do not get the result we wanted, I will still be satisfied.”

The Singapore-China game will be held at the Tuodong Sports Centre in Kunming, located some 1,900 metres above sea level.

In the meantime, Thailand chief coach Winfriend Schaefer said that his chargers are in a good condition ahead of their clash against Australia at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
“Every player is in perfect condition. They know my tactics. The spirit of the team will help us get a result,” said the German. “At the moment, every player looks confident.”

Indonesian veteran striker Bambang Pamungkas is optimistic that his team can get a ‘good result’ when they open their campaign against Iran.

“Iran are a good team but we are not here to lose. We are here to at least win a point,” added Bambang.

“The best team at the end of the 90 minutes will win. We will work hard for the right result.”

Philippines to play friendlies to prepare for Long Teng Cup

The Philippines national team will be playing in three friendly matches in preparation for the Long Teng Cup in Taiwan which will be held on 26 September to 4 October 2011.

The Philippines team, which will report to camp in Bacolod City next week, will take on Global FC (9 Sept), Central Philippine University (11 Sept) and a yet to be confirmed opponent on 13 Sept.

For the Long Teng Cup, the Philippines will play Hong Kong on 30 Sept before taking on hosts Chinese Taipei on 2 Oct with their final round robin opponent Macau two days later.

“We expect hard training when we start our camp in Bacolod although we have already been training mornings and afternoons every day. Coach (Michael Weiss) would want us to be ready for the Long Teng Cup,” said winger Rogel Gener.

Indonesia don't want naturalized players in future

Despite naturalized players playing an increasingly important role in the national team, the FA of Indonesia (PSSI) have decided they no longer need help from abroad.

Bernhard Limbong, the new national team coordinator, said local players needed more protection.

“No more naturalization program. We must have a strong national team which consists of the best players who excel in good local competition. If we keep naturalizing players, there’s no point to have a competition,” said Limbong.

“Besides, winning something with mostly naturalized players won’t feel the same if we do it with all Indonesia-born players.”

PSSI secretary general Tri Goestoro confirmed the program would end.

“We want to give more chances for local players to be selected in the national team, but we will help players already in the process of getting Indonesian citizenship,” he said.

Cristian Gonzales has flown the flag for the cause of naturalized players. The Uruguay-born striker, who has played in this country since 2003, became the first naturalized player to play for Indonesia when he was called up for last year’s AFF Suzuki Cup. He has made an immediate impact, scoring eight goals in 11 appearances.

Kim Jeffrey Kurniawan, a Germany-born defender who plays for Persema Malang, was the next to naturalize. He is fighting for a spot in the Under-23 team for the SEA Games in November.

Two Netherlands-born players, defender Diego Michiels and midfielder Ruben Wuarbanaran, received Indonesia passports last week and are also in the U23 camp.

Seven players are in the process of getting Indonesian citizenship, including Persipura Jayapura defender Victor Igbonefo and Persija Jakarta forward Greg Nwokolo, both Nigerians.

The others are Dutch players with Indonesian heritage — defender Joey Suk, midfielders Tony Cussell and Stefano Lilipaly and forwards Sergio Van Dijk and John Van Beukering.

The PSSI said they would receive their passports as late as next month.

Limbong also commented that on programs that sent youngsters abroad to train and play.

“We don’t need such programs. We should send our coaches abroad to attend courses instead of sending youngsters for a long-term training camp,” he said.

Former Malaysian coach gets offers from Myanmar

Former Malaysia national coach B. Sathiananthan is mulling a move to either the Indonesian League or to the Myanmar National League after having served his six-month suspension.

Sathiananthan was handed the suspension by the FA of Malaysia (FAM) earlier this year, following certain statements he made.

“It is true that I have received some offers from teams in Indonesia and Myanmar where at the moment, my agent is handling the negotiations. I have also been approached by teams from the Malaysian League but I’ve yet to make a decision,” added Sathiananthan.

“As a coach, it is only natural that I get back to the field. I’m just not the type to sit back and keep quiet. I have received the punishment of being suspended for six months and it is certainly a lesson for me.

Sathianathan pointed out that before he made any decision with regards to his future move, he will have to discuss things over with Tan Sri Annuar Musa, the president of the FA of Kelantan (KAFA).

“I have already informed him of the several offers and of my negotiations with the clubs concerned,” he added.

Navibank to represent Vietnam at AFC Cup

Navibank Sai Gon will represent Viet Nam at the Asian Football Confederation Cup next year, after winning the National Cup on Saturday.

Navibank defeated Song Lam Nghe An 3-0 on their home turf, Thong Nhat Stadium, to take their first title since 1991.

Navibank's striker Nguyen Quang Hai opened the score in the 37th minute of the match, after missing several chances.

Navibank's spirit was invigorated after the goal, while the players on Song Lam Nghe An were visibly disheartened.

Their disappointing performance caused a loosening of the defensive line, which let a second goal through just five minutes later.

Cao Quang Huong made a beautiful shot off the box, which flew over the outstretched arms of Nghe An's goalie Nguyen Duc Thang.

Although the host then slowed down the pace of the game, the new V-league champions failed to take back control of the match.

Keeper Nguyen The Anh had a leisurely game and Navibank defenders did not have to expend too much energy to stop Nghe An's attacks.

The second half of the match saw not much change, although coach Nguyen Huu Thang had more than 10 minutes to adjust his tactics as well as encourage his players.

Just nine minutes after the break, Huong doubled his goal tally, taking advantage of a sudden opening.

The midfielder – in an attempt to pass the ball into the box – made an errant kick that went over keeper Thang's reach before entering the net.

"I have to say thank you to all players on my team who performed at their best to secure this title. It's been 10 years since we've held this cup. I and the team are proud to do it for the (HCM) city," said coach Mai Duc Chung.

Meanwhile coach Thang regretted that he could not secure a title double this season after the loss.

"It was a pity that we could not win the second tournament, but we have to accept that because it was a good game.

"We lost because of some key players including captain Nguyen Huy Hoang," he said.

The two teams will meet for a second time in the Super Cup match, which has not yet been scheduled.

Philippines ready for U-19 AFF Cup

The Philippine Musangs, the country's national under-19 football team, arrived in Manila Monday night from Bacolod.

The team is managed by former congressman Charlie Cojuangco and coached by Maor Rozen, previously from the Spanish Football Federation.

We have been working with these players since 2 months ago. In Vietnam only we will work out the tactical aspects of the game. Our goal is only to try to develop new players for the future national teams, under-21, under-23, maybe Azkals. This must be the goal of the youth teams of the Philippines," Rozen said.

"For our team, all the teams are stronger, it means this tournament will be very hard for us. We will try to compete and to do the best that we can, but we will play hard because we will be competing against teams that have been working since 3-4 years ago," he added. "We will try to do the best we can. No secrets in football... we work very hard... to try to compete."

Captains Leo Carlo Liay, Ali Mahmoud, and Fitch Johnson Aviz Arboleda lead the 20 players, who were selected from over 600 applicants in try-outs conducted across the country.

The Musangs will leave Tuesday morning for Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.

They will compete in the Asian Football Federation U-19 Championship that will be held from September 8 to 21, in Yangon, Myanmar.

Brunei to play Vietnam in U-19 AFF Cup opening match

Vietnam will clash with Brunei in the opener of the Under-19 ASEAN Football Federtion (AFF) championships in Yangoon, Myanmar on September 8.

An AFF release Tuesday said Vietnam will play hosts Myanmar on the 10^th, Indonesia on the 12^th and Laos on the 16^th of September in Group B in the fight for a semifinal berth.

In Group A, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia and the Philippines will compete for the other two berths semifinal berths.

The semifinals will be played on 19^th September and the finals on 21^st.

Vietnam aims to advance to the last four at least in the tournament. The team has not done too well in the last two years, finishing third and fourth on 2009 and 2010 respectively.

Indonesia hammers Palestine in friendly match

Indonesia had to come back from a goal down before they were able to thump Palestine 4-1 in the friendly that was played at the Manahan Stadium in Solo.

With the score tied at the end of the first half, it was the visiting Palestinean side who carved the lead off Sulaiman Obad in the 48th minute.

But the Indonesians did not lose shape in front for Hariono to slam in a 64^th minute equaliser before Cristian Gonzalez (pix) then gave the home fans something to cheer with the lead in the six minutes later.

Veteran striker Bambang Pamungkas then made sure of the win for Indonesia with a brace off goals in the 78th and 85th.

The win however failed to impress Indonesia chief coach Wim Rijsbergen, who felt that there were still aspects in their game which needed improvements.

“In the first half, the concentration of the players was not at a level where they should be and they made a lot of mistakes. If the players can minimize mistakes and lay to instruction then we can be a lot better,” added Wim.

“The players also have the tendency to be very individualistic and seem to be hasty in going forward.”

But nevertheless, Wim feels that the win over Palestine has given Indonesia the right motivation for their clash against Iran in the opening Group E match of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

“Iran have strong players, but we are not afraid. We have to prepare the team mentally. We still have a friendly match against Jordan coming up and we will see how the team has developed then,” added Wim.

Philippines to play India in friendly

The Philippines Football Federation (PFF) have confirmed India as the opponent for their Under-23 team as part of the preparation for the SEA Games which will be hosted by Indonesia at the end of the year.

“We’ve invited India for a friendly on 6 October and we’re still arranging other schedules,” said Mariano Araneta, the president of the PFF.

“We are inviting teams from other countries in Asia to play with us to hone the skills of our players.”

Araneta pointed out that the FA of Malaysia have declined an invitation to play the Philippines due to a conflict in schedule.

Singapore draws with Thailand in friendly

Singapore and Thailand battled to a scoreless in a friendly that was played at the Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok.

Both teams were using the game as part of their preparation for the third round of the 2014 World Cup qualifying round next month.

“This is not the first time Thailand and Singapore played each other and both countries know each other well. I believe that this game is important for both of us as we prepare for the China game,” said Radojko Avramovic, the chief coach of Singapore.

“It was an exciting and competitive game where both teams had chances. In the first half, we had more opportunities but they had chances in the second-half as well.

“It will be a difficult game against China as they have some quality players but we will go to Kunming and do our best and play our own game.”

Both teams created several chances to score but in the end, had to be content with the end result.

”I wanted to see some new players play. I wanted them to prove if they are good enough for the national team,” said Winfried Schaefer, the Thai coach.

“We had several chances to score but could not come up with goals. This is the main problem for Thailand. We also need to improve out set-piece play. But overall many things improved.”

For the qualifiers, Singapore are in Group A against China, Jordan and Iraq.

Thailand are in Group D against Australia, Saudi Arabia and Oman.

Indonesia to have new format for professional league

The FA of Indonesia (PSSI) have finally unveiled the new format for the Indonesia professional league for the new 2011/2012 season – subject to the approval from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

Following the dismantling of the Indonesia Super League (ISL) and the disruption of the Indonesia Premier League (LPI), there were questions being raised as to how to merge the two divisions.

And this week, the PSSI have decided to make a return to an old format (in 2003 to 2007), citing the wide expanse of the Indonesian archipelago as the reason why they have decided to have the East and West Conferences for the top division which is called Level 1 for the moment.

Each Conference will have 16 teams each.

“The Level 1 professional league will have 16 teams in each division. Which teams will be placed in which division of East or West will depend on their geographical location,” said Sihar Sitorus, the chairman of the PSSI Competitions Committee.

“We have decided on having two conferences based on efficiency. Indonesia is a very big country and we do not want to put pressure on the team financially.”

In the meantime, the Level 2 division will see 48 teams being divided into four conferences.
“No clubs were able to pay the IDR 5 billion (USD585,000) cash deposit required, so we’re thinking of cutting the deposit requirement to IDR 3 billion (USD349,650),” added Sihar.

Both leagues are expected to start in October 2011.

The PSSI used the same two-tier league system from 2003 to 2007.

In 2008, the PSSI switched to a single-league system to comply with AFC rules, which said domestic leagues must include just one professional division with a maximum of 20 teams.

LEVEL 1 CANDIDATES
Persipura, Arema, Persija, Semen Padang, Sriwijaya FC, Persisam, Persib, Persiwa, Persela, Persiba, PSPS, Pelita Jaya, Deltras, Persijap, Bontang FC, Persema, Persibo, PSM, Mitra Kukar, Persiraja, PSMS, Pro Duta FC, Persik, PSIS, PSCS, Persikota, Persis, Persiba, Persebaya, PS Barito Putra, PSS, PSIR, PS Bengkulu, Persipasi

LEVEL 2 CANDIDATES
PSAP, Persita, Persik, Persitara, Persikabo, PSLS, PSSB, Persires, Persiram, Gresik United, Perseman, PSIM, Persikab, Persemalra, PPSM, Persidafon, PSBI, Persigo, Persiku, Persipro, Perseru, PSMP, PSBS, Persibul, Persepam, PSBL, Persinjai, Madiun Putra, Persewangi, Persip, PSBK, KSB, Persetema, Persid, Persepar, PSGL

Vietnam preparing for SEA Games

The Vietnam national U23 football team will be playing in two tournaments as part of their preparations for the 26th SEA Games which will be hosted by Indonesia at the end of the year.

The first tournament will be for the Ho Chi Minh City Cup that will be held at the Thong Nhat Stadium on 28 September to 2 October 2011.

The Vietnam U23 team will be up against the Singapore U23 squad, the Syrian Olympic team and the Republic of Korea’s student team.

Then later in the month on 19-23 October 2011, the Vietnamese squad will take part in the VFF Son Ha Cup in Hanoi where they will take on the U23 teams from Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.

The event will be played out at the My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi.

Falko Goetz, the chief coach of Vietnam, will announce the shortlist of 30 players for the Vietnam U23 squad next week.

Philippines to get artificial pitch

The Philippines national team will soon  get an artificial pitch of their own ending in Pasig City, giving the team more sense of permanence than what they are used to at the moment.

Mariano ‘Nonong’ Araneta Jr , the president of the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) confirmed the grant approved by FIFA following the agreement with the Philippine Sports Commission.

“We (PFF and PSC) will have to sign the MOA (Memorandum of Agreement) again on 1 Sept 2011 but it’s only for formality because the draft has already been approved by FIFA,” explaind Araneta.

As part of FIFA’s Goal Project 2 for the PFF, the international football body has approved the grant of USD500,000 (roughly PHP 21.7 million).

The PSC, which managed the Philsport pitch, has agreed to have an artificial turf installed in the 10,000-seater Arena in Pasig City with the PFF entrusted to manage the pitch for the next 25 years.

“But the grant (of USD 500,000) will not be enough where we still need to find an additional cost of USD100,000 (PHP4.3 million) to cover the cost of construction,” added Araneta.

The team currently use the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium and the pitch at the Alabang Country Club as training site.

Vietnam beats Cambodia twice in friendly

The Vietnam Under-19 team preparing for the AFF U19 Championship next month could not have got a better preparatory ground than  beating their Cambodian counterparts twice in a row.

In the first match that was played at the My Dinh National Stadium in Hanoi, the Vietnam U19 squad scored a 2-1 win over Cambodia before overwhelming the same with a 3-0 scoreline.

The AFF U19 Championship has been slated for 8-21 September in Yangon, Myanmar.

Indonesian coach demands his players improve on ball possession

Wim Rijsbergen, the chief coach of the Indonesia national team has demanded that his chargers improve on their ball possession after watching them lose 1-0 to Jordan in a friendly.

The Indonesian national team are in Jordan in preparation for the third round of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers where they will be up against Iran on 2 Sept 2011.

Wim was quoted as saying that losing possession when players are not under stress is something that they should not be doing at this level.

“We created a lot of chances in the first half, but we just could not convert them to goals. In the second half, we were just not coordinated enough and these are the things we need to improve when we take on Iran,” Wim was quoted.

But Wim admitted that the defensively, the team has improved a lot.

Indonesia are in Group E of the qualifiers against Group against Iran, Qatar and Bahrain.

Phnom Penh Crown FC wins Cambodian League

Phnom Penh Crown FC won the Metfone Cambodia League for the second time in two years when they maintained their position at the top of the table with a four-point advantage going into the last game of the season next week.

And this week, Phnom Penh picked up a further three points with a slim 1-0 victory over Preah Khan Reach FC with Njoku Kingsley Metu nailing what was the winner three minutes into the second half.

The Cambodia League title was the first for Englishman David Booth who took over the running of the team earlier this year.

After 17 match day, Phnom Penh have won 44 points – four points ahead of Naga Corp with just one game left to the end of the season.

Second-placed Naga Corp FC’s hope of bypassing Phnom Penh fell asunder in spite of their comfortable 4-1 victory over National Defence FC.

Not even a brace (14^th and 65^th minute) from Oiboh Julius could change the inevitable even though Naga did score further goals from Esoh Omogba (43^rd minute) and Teab Vatanak (78^th minute).

Elsewhere, Build Bright United beat Chhlam Samut 2-0 as Kirivong Sok Se Chey FC thumped Rithisen 6-1.
Prek Pra Keila  moved up to eighth at the table when
they edged National Police 2-1.

Philippines going to Japan to train for SEA Games

In preparation for the 26^th edition of the SEA Games which will be hosted by Indonesia at the end of the year, Philippines are planning to head to Japan as a possible training ground.
Mariano Araneta, the president of the Phillipines Football Federation (PFF) confirmed that Japan is a possible destination for a week training session in October.

After missing out on the last two editions of the SEA Games in 2009 (Laos) and 2007 (Thailand), renewed confidence in the Philippines national team at the last AFF Suzuki Cup 2010 has prodded their participation for the Jakarta meet.

With several experienced players from the senior squad like goalkeeper Neil Etheridge and midfielders Jason de Jong, Manuel Ott, Yannick Tuason and Simon Greatwich still eligible for the SEA Games, hopes are rife that the Philippines U23 squad might just get on the podium for the first time in their history.

Thailand offers big bonus for players against Australia

Thailand will be playing for more than a place in the 2014 Football World Cup when they take on Australia on Friday, with bonuses of more than AU$64,000 on offer for a win.

 

The Football Association of Thailand offered the bonuses with the squad of 23 players in Brisbane for Friday's game feeling optimistic under new coach, former German player Winfried Schafer, despite their underdog status.

Thai Football Association president Worawi Makudi said despite the challenges of having a physically and technically inferior side to the Australians, he remained upbeat.

"We are optimistic but I mean we are a little bit behind the Australian standard," Worawi told AAP before the team's departure. "Of course we are the underdogs as we are. But we will try our best to provide a good fight in this match with Australia."

The FA has offered bonuses of two million baht ($A64,500) for a win over the Socceroos and one million baht ($A32,000) for a draw.

Worawi said preparations for the game had been positive under new coach Schafer, who has signed a three-year contract to oversee the Thai national team.

"I think I'm optimistic for his performance and I do trust him to do something for our team," he said of the new coach.

In the team's first games under Schafer, Thailand defeated Palestine 3-2 on aggregate in July to move to the third round of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Before heading to Thailand, Schafer's recent coaching successes included Cameroon's victory in the African Nations Cup in 2002 and a league title for Al-Ahli in the United Arab Emirates.

The Socceroos' return match against Thailand is scheduled for November 15 in Bangkok. Australia are also due to play Saudi Arabia on September 6 at the Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium, Dammam.

Thailand coach not worried about World Cup qualifier opponents

Despite being drawn into a tough World Cup qualifying group, Thailand coach Winfried Schaefer is in confident mood saying he is not afraid of any side.

Thailand face Australia, Saudi Arabia and Oman in Group D of Asia's third qualifying round for the 2014 World Cup with the top two teams from each of the five groups advance to the final stage.

Although Schaefer's men could only edge past Palestine 3-2 over two legs in the previous qualifying tie in his first assignment as coach of Thailand, the German said he aimed to get at least a point in every game against Australia, Saudi Arabia and Oman.

"We could not select our opponents and I don't care who we are going to meet," said Schaefer who coached Cameroon at the 2002 World Cup.

"We are not afraid of any team and our players are eager to play against any team. We target a point in every away game and we should win all home games."

Schaefer has worked with several teams in the Middle East and he believes his knowledge of football in the region would be useful.

"I know that players in the Middle East are tall and have good skills. But we prove that we can play against a Middle East side by beating Palestine. I am sure that we can get good results against Saudi Arabia and Oman."

Worawi Makudi, president of the Football Association of Thailand, has called a meeting of the National Team Committee on Thursday to map out plans for the World Cup qualifying.
Worawi has promised to give the national side one million baht for each win.

Following the World Cup draw on Saturday, national team manager Anucha Nakasai said Thailand could upset the Aussies, who finished second at this year's Asian Cup.

"They are admittedly all strong teams but at least we didn't get Japan or South Korea," he said.
"Australia play a high standard of football, but I think we can give them a good game. The Australian players are tall but they are a bit slow. I think we have the speed with our short-passing game to upset them, but of course it will be difficult."

Australia coach Holger Osieck was diplomatic on Sunday saying: "Saudi look pretty strong to me but you never know where you stand with a team like Oman and even Thailand.

"They all have international coaches, Rijkaard at Saudi, Paul Le Guen at Oman and Winfried Schaefer in Thailand, so they will try to introduce their success into their teams."

The Socceroos are favourites to progress from what one Australian newspaper described as the "group of life" .

Thailand announces squad to play Australia in World Cup qualifier

The FA of Thailand (FAT) have announced the squad which will take on Australia in the opening third round of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

The game will be played at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on 2 Sept 2011.

Other than Australia in Group D, the Thais will also be up against Saudi Arabia and Oman.

THAILAND SQUAD

GOALKEEPERS: Sinthaweechai Hathairattanakool (Chonburi), Sivaruk Terdsungnern (Buriram PEA) and Chatchai Butprom (Osotspa M-150).

DEFENDERS: Phaitoon Tiebma (Muang Thong), Suttinun Phukhom (Chonburi), Chonlatit Jantakam (Chonburi), Teerathorn Boonmathan (Buriram PEA), Supachai Komsil (Bangkok Glass), Niweat Siriwong (Pattaya) and Prathum Chuthong (Osotspa M-150).

MIDFIELDERS: Jakkraprom Kaewprom (Buriram PEA), Datsakorn Thonglao (Muang Thong), Adul Lasoh (Chonburi), Suchao Nutnum (Buriram PEA), Surat Sukha (Buriram PEA), Pokklao Anan (Insee Police), Arthit Sunthornpit (Chonburi), Piyapol Buntao (Muang Thong) and Rangsan Vivatchaichok (Buriram PEA).

STRIKERS: Teerasil Dangda (Muang Thong), Chatree Chimtalay (Bangkok Glass), Sompong Sorleb (Buriram FC) and Sarayuth Chaikamdee (Bangkok Glass) .

Thailand confident about chances in World Cup qualifiers

Despite having drawn in a difficult group with Australia and Saudi Arabia, Football Association of Thailand President Worawi Makudi remains confident Thailand advance to the next round of the 2014 World Cup qualifier.

Football Association of Thailand President Worawi Makudi made a comment after learning that Thailand has drawn with Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Oman in Group B of the third round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2014 World Cup, saying that despite being placed in a difficult group, Thailand has played close matches against Australia and Saudi Arabia before and has won against Oman in past meetings.

The FAT president pointed out that with proper preparation, Thailand could make it to the last ten of the World Cup qualifier.

He expects the national squad will be recalled on August 25 and will play a friendly fixture before taking part in the qualifiers.

Meanwhile, Holger Osieck, who has taken rein of Australia since last August, has said there is no longer such thing as a weak Asian team.

Osieck commented that while Saudi Arabia is a strong team, Thailand and Oman are now being guided by experienced foreign managers.

In any case, the coach said his team will not underestimate its opponents.

Thailand will visit Australia on September 2 before hosting Oman on September 6 and Saudi Arabia on October 11.

The War Elephants will play the away leg against Saudi Arabia on November 11 and the home leg against Australia on November 15, with the last fixture of the round in Oman on February 29 of next year.

South East Asian Football

This is a blog about football in South East Asian countries.