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.
Wednesday 31 August 2011
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.
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 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.
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 10th, Indonesia on the 12th and Laos on the 16th 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 19th September and the finals on 21st.
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.
An AFF release Tuesday said Vietnam will play hosts Myanmar on the 10th, Indonesia on the 12th and Laos on the 16th 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 19th September and the finals on 21st.
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 64th 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.
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 64th 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.
“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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 (14th and 65th minute) from Oiboh Julius could change the inevitable even though Naga did score further goals from Esoh Omogba (43rd minute) and Teab Vatanak (78th 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.
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 (14th and 65th minute) from Oiboh Julius could change the inevitable even though Naga did score further goals from Esoh Omogba (43rd minute) and Teab Vatanak (78th 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 26th 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.
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 ($A32,000) for a draw.
Worawi said preparations for the game had been positive under new coach Schafer, who has signed a three-year contract to oversee the Thai national team.
"I think I'm optimistic for his performance and I do trust him to do something for our team," he said of the new coach.
In the team's first games under Schafer, Thailand defeated Palestine 3-2 on aggregate in July to move to the third round of qualifying for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Before heading to Thailand, Schafer's recent coaching successes included Cameroon's victory in the African Nations Cup in 2002 and a league title for Al-Ahli in the United Arab Emirates.
The Socceroos' return match against Thailand is scheduled for November 15 in Bangkok. Australia are also due to play Saudi Arabia on September 6 at the Prince Mohamed bin Fahd Stadium, Dammam.
Thai Football Association president Worawi Makudi said despite the challenges of having a physically and technically inferior side to the Australians, he remained upbeat.
"We are optimistic but I mean we are a little bit behind the Australian standard," Worawi told AAP before the team's departure. "Of course we are the underdogs as we are. But we will try our best to provide a good fight in this match with Australia."
The FA has offered bonuses of two million baht ($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.
Tuesday 30 August 2011
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 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) .
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.
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.
Sunday 14 August 2011
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