Cuadrat puts faith in youth as Philippines begins new era in ASEAN Hyundai Cup

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A new chapter begins for the Philippine men’s national football team.

With a blend of promising youngsters and seasoned veterans, head coach Carles Cuadrat has unveiled a youthful squad that will carry the country’s hopes in the inaugural ASEAN Hyundai Cup.

The roster signals a changing of the guard as several regular national team players remain unavailable due to club commitments, opening the door for a new wave of talent eager to make its mark.

Among those receiving the opportunity are forwards Raphael Ritarita, Andres Aldeguer, Aarran Long, and Martini Rey; goalkeeper Enrico Mangaoang; defenders Jaime Rosquillo and John Lucero; midfielder Gavin Muens; and overseas-based prospects Noah Leddel and Kenji Nishioka.

Nineteen-year-old Ritarita joins the national team after competing for Crown Legacy in MLS NEXT Pro in the United States, while Mangaoang earned his place following impressive performances with UMAK-Aguilas.

While youth takes center stage, Cuadrat has ensured the squad retains a strong veteran foundation.

Sandro Reyes will lead the midfield alongside Javier Mariona, Jarvey Gayoso, Cole Mrowka, Andrei Leipold, and Santi Rublico, while experienced defender Daisuke Sato marshals the backline with Christian Rontini, Adrian Ugelvik, Scott Woods, and Rosquillo.

Additional experience comes from midfielders Pocholo Bugas and Oskari Kekkonen, while Patrick Deyto and Quincy Kammeraad provide reliable options in goal. Kammeraad played a key role during the Philippines’ run to the semifinals of the 2024 tournament.

Several familiar names are absent from the squad as they continue to fulfill commitments with their respective clubs during the competition.

The Philippines begins its Group B campaign against Myanmar on July 28 at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium in Capas, Tarlac, before traveling to Vientiane to face Laos on Aug. 1.

The Filipinos will then return home for what could prove to be a decisive clash against group favorite Thailand on Aug. 4 before closing out the group stage against Malaysia on Aug. 8 in Kuala Lumpur.

With fresh faces eager to prove themselves and experienced leaders guiding the way, the Philippines hopes this new generation can build on its semifinal finish in 2024 and take another step toward regional success.