Philippine Men’s National Football Team head coach Tom Saintfiet hailed the competitiveness of the squad ahead of the team’s crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers tie against Iraq on 21 March 2024 at the Basra International Stadium.
The squad was finally complete over the past two days and conducted their training sessions in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, before flying out to Iraq for the match.
“It was a great camp, we know we had a limited time, but the organization and staff was top-notch,” said Saintfiet. “I was satisfied with the progression we made. The motivation and cooperation is on a high and we are ready to compete against Iraq.”
The Belgian coach underlines that the squad has what it takes to take on the Lions of Mesopotamia in the two qualifier matches.
“They are all good players,” added Saintfiet. “I have a team of quality players with the right mentality with a lot of discipline and it will be tough for me as the coach to make the choice.”