Philippine men’s football team head coach Carles Cuadrat believes his youthful squad has what it takes to begin their ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 Group B campaign on a positive note when they face Myanmar Tuesday at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium in Capas, Tarlac.
The five-time semifinalist opens its latest bid for a historic first appearance in the tournament final against a familiar opponent. The two sides last met in June, when the Philippines claimed a convincing 5-1 victory in an international friendly before Myanmar appointed new head coach Jorn Andersen.
Despite that dominant result, Cuadrat insists the previous encounter will have little influence on today’s match, as Myanmar have evolved under their new leadership.
‘We have analyzed the opposition thoroughly. Myanmar’s new coach has introduced different ideas, although many of the players remain the same. That previous meeting gives us valuable experience, but this will be a different challenge,’ Cuadrat said.
The Spanish tactician also highlighted the youthfulness of his current squad, which is even younger than the team that competed in the recent Tri-Nations Tournament.
‘Back then, experienced players like Randy Schneider and Patrick Reichelt provided leadership. This time, we have only two players over the age of 30, while the rest of the squad is very young. It will be an important test, but the players have trained well and understand what we want to achieve on the pitch. We’re hoping to deliver a strong performance,’ he added.
The Philippines and Myanmar have met nine times in the regional championship over the past three decades, with their most recent tournament meeting ending in a draw in 2024. Myanmar, meanwhile, have not beaten the Philippines since 2004.
Andersen’s squad enters the match after a demanding trip from Yangon following their Group B opener, where they suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Malaysia.
‘We will do our best tomorrow,’ Andersen said. ‘We know it will be a difficult away match after a long journey and a tough game on Saturday, but we will give everything we have.’
The Norwegian coach also felt his side deserved more from the loss to Malaysia and will be aiming for a stronger performance against the hosts.
Kickoff is set for 6 p.m., with Sportfive on top of the action as the Philippines look to make a winning start to their ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 campaign.