Andre Leipold believes the Philippines can take useful lessons from the FIFA ASEAN Cup into their next international programme. In an interview published by FIFA on 15 October, the winger reviewed the team's progress and described qualification for the 2030 World Cup as a long-term ambition.
Previous results become learning points
The Philippines lost 1-0 to Vietnam, drew 2-2 with Pakistan and beat Thailand 2-1, finishing third in Group B. Those matches are the background to the new interview, not fresh results on its publication date.
Leipold says the team improved after the opener but allowed the Pakistan match to slip during the second half. Against Thailand, he used his pace before crossing for Bjorn Kristensen to score.
He recalls that the players knew even victory in the final game might not prevent elimination. The positive finish therefore came with lessons about the overall campaign.
Building towards the next international window
Leipold is contracted to Pardubice and on loan at Verl in Germany's third tier. FIFA records three goals in ten Philippines appearances since his debut in June of the previous year.
He says Carles Cuadrat's preference for wingers running behind opponents suits his speed. A German-speaking group within the squad and English communication with the coaches have also helped integration.
The team want to sustain progress into November and advance as far as possible in World Cup qualifying. Those are the player's ambitions and assessments; the interview does not establish that the Philippines have secured a finals place.