FOOTBALL | ASIAN CUP-1.14.23: VIETNAM: Viet Nam have self belief ahead of Japan in Asian Cup opener
Vietnamese players in training on January 11. Việt Nam will play Japan on January 14 in the Asian Cup’s Group D opener. Photo courtesy of VFF
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BRUNEI: Kubo set for lift-off with Japan at Asian Cup
DOHA (AFP) – Takefusa Kubo was tipped for stardom after joining Barcelona’s academy aged 10 and the Japanese attacking midfielder now looks poised to realise his potential by taking the Asian Cup by storm.
The 22-year-old, who was once signed by Real Madrid, has found his feet at Real Sociedad this season, scoring six goals and helping them top their Champions League group.
His eye-catching form has seen him linked with Manchester United.
Kubo played only a bit part at the 2022 World Cup but he is ready to take centre stage as Japan return to Qatar for the Asian Cup.
With Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma likely to miss the early part of their campaign through injury, Kubo’s ability to unlock defences will be crucial.
Memento Maxima Digital MarketingPHILIPPINES: Gonzales takes over Palami as Azkals manager
Philippine Azkals. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Former Philippine intern
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Former Philippine international Freddy Gonzalez was tasked to manage the national men’s football team following his appointment as director of national teams by the Philippine Football Federation (PFF).
PFF president John Gutierrez made the announcement Thursday, two days after Dan Palami stepped down from the post he had held since 2010.
“Mr. Gonzalez’s appointment represents the start of a new era and direction for the [men’s national team],” Gutierrez said in a statement. Gonzalez served as part of transition team following Gutierrez’s election as Nonong Araneta’s successor last November.
“As a former national team player himself, his passion to play for the country, his football knowledge, and his experience all give him a clear understanding on what needs to be done to be successful at the international level,” added Gutierrez.
Gonzalez will be tasked to handle the direction of the men’s program for the World Cup/Asian Cup Qualifiers which resumes in March.
The 46-year-old played for the national team as its main striker from 1997 to 2002, scoring four international goals. He also had a professional stint in Vietnam before suiting up for Pachanga and Loyola Meralco Sparks in the defunct United Football League.
“Managing the team is a huge challenge, but it’s a challenge that I’m excited to take on. There is massive potential in the team and we’re ready to forge ahead with our plans and programs,” said Gonzalez.
“With such a short turnaround before the next set of matches in the World Cup qualifiers, we have plans in place for the team to ensure their readiness for battle. We will continue to work on assembling the strongest national team and make sure that they are supported. With consistency, we can hopefully see changes translate into improved results on the field.”
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VIETNAM: Viet Nam have self belief ahead of Japan in Asian Cup opener
January 13, 2024Vietnamese players in training on January 11. Việt Nam will play Japan on January 14 in the Asian Cup’s Group D opener. Photo courtesy of VFF
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Coach Troussier has opted for a mix of experience and youth with his 26-player squad selection for the tournament in Qatar.HÀ NỘI — Despite facing Asian powerhouse Japan in their opening match of the 2023 Asian Cup on Sunday, head coach Philippe Troussier is believes his side can cause an upset.
Coach Troussier has opted for a mix of experience and youth with his 26-player squad selection for the tournament in Qatar.
He’s put his trust in veteran defenders Đỗ Duy Mạnh and Hồ Tấn Tài, midfielders Đỗ Hùng Dũng and Nguyễn Quang Hải, and forward Nguyễn Văn Toàn.
But he’s also opted for young talent too, selecting defender Võ Minh Trọng, midfielder Khuất Văn Khang and striker Phạm Tuấn Hải.
There are also fresh faces in the squad with goalkeeper Nguyen Filip and defender Giáp Tuấn Dương called up for the first time.
Troussier’s selection has made Việt Nam one of the four youngest squads in the competition which began yesterday with hosts Qatar taking on Lebanon in Lusail City.
