Head coaches (from left) Valakone, Inai and Tam posing for a photo-call after the press conference at Stadium Negeri yesterday.
KUCHING: The AFC Solidarity Cup is the best platform for football minnows in Asia to improve on FIFA rankings and Macau coach Tam Jao San makes no secret of that at the on-going championship at Stadium Negeri.The low rankings are the main factor for them to organise international friendly matches and hence the Solidarity Cup in Kuching, which promises primetime exposure.
“This championship represents the best platform for lower ranked teams to compete with other higher ranked teams in Asia.
“We will utilise this chance fully and do our best in this championship,” he said on Wednesday.
Laos coach Valakone Phomphakdy too said it offers good experience for team to find the right combination of seniors and rookies on the international stage. Though not harbouring high hopes, Valakone is optimist Laos would give their best.
“It can’t be denied that we are still playing as amateurs but we will still give a 100 per cent commitment ihere,” he added.
Mongolia coach Inai Toshakhi who was appointed to the national team only a fortnight ago, said: “This is my first major championship and it is important for the team with averagely young players.”
Laos, Macau, Sri Lanka and Mongolia are drawn in Group B.