Vietnam's opponent announces squad for 2026 Asean Cup

The Timor-Leste Football Federation (FFTL) has revealed a list of 26 players for the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026. Comprising 3 goalkeepers, 7 defenders, 5 midfielders, and 11 forwards, the selection highlights coach Zé Pedro's focus on enhancing the offensive lineup.

Notable names on the list include veteran striker Joao Pedro, along with Paulo Gusmão and Luis Figo. Additionally, Olagar Xavier (Kaka), Gustavo Mota, Zion Cruz, and Alexandre Corsino are also prominent figures in the forward line.

In midfield, Timor-Leste relies on Palomito Ribeiro, Natalino de Jesus, Claudio Osorio, Tristan Xavi Arrarte, and Denilson Almeida.

The defensive line consists of Juvito Moniz, Jackson M. Pereira Fowler, Eric Tomas T. Silva, Joao Varudo, Ryan Harris Jom, Anizo Correia, and Liam Fernando Farrugia.

In goal, the three registered goalkeepers are Dylan Jose Niski, Alexandre Lima, and Igidio Oliveira.

According to the draw results, Timor-Leste is placed in Group A alongside defending champions Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, and Cambodia. Timor-Leste secured their spot in the finals by defeating Brunei in the playoff round.

Timor-Leste will kick off their ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 campaign by hosting defending champions Vietnam on July 24. This match is considered a home game for Timor-Leste, though the venue has yet to be officially announced by the ASEAN Hyundai Cup organizing committee.

As the country has not yet fully met the tournament's organizational standards, Timor-Leste will likely again choose a neutral venue for home matches, similar to the playoff against Brunei when coach Zé Pedro's team played in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

After the opening match against Timor-Leste, Vietnam will return home to face Singapore (July 31), then travel to play Indonesia (August 3), before concluding the group stage by hosting Cambodia on August 7.

Timor-Leste's 26-player squad for the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup

Goalkeepers (3): Dylan Jose Niski, Alexandre Lima, Igidio Oliveira.

Defenders (7): Juvito Moniz, Jackson M. Pereira Fowler, Eric Tomas T. Silva, Joao Varudo, Ryan Harris Jom, Anizo Correia, Liam Fernando Farrugia.

Midfielders (5): Palomito Ribeiro, Natalino de Jesus, Claudio Osorio, Tristan Xavi Arrarte, Denilson Almeida.

Forwards (11): Paulo Gusmão, Luis Figo, Joao Pedro, Olagar Xavier (Kaka), Angenuku Viegas, Joao Rangel, Gustavo Mota, Oatnasio Guterres, Vabio Cannavaro, Zion Cruz, Alexandre Corsino.