DILI, 28 August 2025 (TATOLI) – The Timor-Leste Football Federation (FFTL) has officially appointed Portuguese coach José Pedro Alves Salazar, 44, better known as Zé Pedro, as the new coach of the national team, replacing Simón Elissetche. Portuguese coach Jaime Coelho has also joined as assistant coach.
At the presentation ceremony, FFTL President Nilton Gusmão expressed confidence in the new coaching team and highlighted Zé Pedro’s experience in working with young players, describing it as crucial for the future of Timorese football.
“Our main goal in bringing these coaches is to reorganize the national team and build a strong foundation for Timorese football so we can become more competitive,” Gusmão said. “We chose Zé Pedro because we want him to bring the European style of football to Timor-Leste, particularly the Portuguese playing philosophy.”
He added that the federation’s priority is to introduce structural changes and prepare the squad to compete at the highest level, with immediate focus on the Asian qualification matches against the Philippines, Tajikistan, and the Maldives.
Zé Pedro said he was honored to accept the role and motivated by the challenge. “Representing this team means representing a nation, and we have objectives to achieve. From the first discussions with the FFTL leadership, it was easy to reach an agreement,” he said.
He acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming Asian qualifiers but promised to give his best to secure positive results.
Pedro also stressed that his work would go beyond the senior team to include youth development. “The project involves coaching not only the national team but also the youth squads, following guidelines that ensure long-term progress. Our goal is to give our best for Timorese football and make the national team a priority,” he said.
He brings experience as a former professional player in Portugal and the Europa League, as well as coaching roles in Portuguese clubs and, most recently, in Cyprus.
His contract with FFTL runs for one year and will be formally signed in early September, with the option of renewal based on performance.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
