T&T to face Russia in international friendly

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC):

Trinidad and Tobago's senior men's football team will take on Russia in an international friendly as part of their preparations for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League campaign.

The match will take place on June 9 at the Kaliningrad Stadium on Oktyabrsky Island, Kaliningrad, Russia, a venue that hosted four matches during the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Interim head coach Derek King will use the opportunity to shape the national squad, with the match being one of several international friendlies being arranged.

King said the fixture was a key component in the team's development.

"This is a very good game for us at this stage of our preparation.

"As we continue to build and develop our squad ahead of the Concacaf Nations League in September, matches of this level provide the kind of competitive environment our players need to grow, both individually and collectively," King told the T&T Football Association media on Monday.

"As head coach of the team, I welcome this upcoming international fixture against Russia as an important step in the team's ongoing development. We also have a couple of other friendly games lined up, which will further support our preparation."

Additionally, King said the upcoming match would strengthening the team's identity and sharpen its competitive edge.

"Our focus is on improving our structure, strengthening our identity, and ensuring that we are competitive at every level. This match allows us to test ourselves against quality opposition, while continuing to build the chemistry and discipline required for Nations League football," King stated.