DUSHANBE, 12.12.2024 (NIAT Khovar) – Head coach of the national football team of Tajikistan Gela Shekiladze commented on the results of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifying tournament, where Tajik team will play with the Philippines, Maldives and East Timor.

“There are no weak teams at this level. We will need to prepare for each match. The Philippines team is a good opponent. We know this team well, we have already played with them twice this year. The Philippines team attracts many players from European championships. In general, the Philippines is a rather inconvenient opponent for the Tajik team, matches with them have always been difficult. Let’s remember at least the matches of the 2019 Asian Cup qualifying tournament”, he noted.

“I am also familiar with the Maldives team, I worked in this team, the team is not bad. East Timor is not such a strong team compared to the Philippines, but any opponent must be respected. Disrespect for an opponent is always punishable. The matches in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifying tournament will not be easy. Any team must be treated with due respect, prepared and approached with full dedication to each match. We have already drawn up a plan for preparing for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifying tournament matches. Next year, the players will have many games, both in the national championship and on the international arena. Therefore, candidates for the national team must be in good shape. The goal of our team is to reach the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. And we will do everything to achieve it,” said Shekiladze.