The Surinamese Football Association (SVB) has officially announced the appointment of Dutch manager Henk ten Cate as the new head coach of the men’s national team. This strategic decision positions the experienced international manager to lead Suriname through the critical World Cup qualifying play-offs scheduled for March 2026.
Ten Cate brings extensive international coaching credentials to the role, having previously worked with top European clubs including Barcelona, Chelsea, and Ajax. His appointment signals SVB’s commitment to leveraging global expertise as Suriname pursues qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to the football association, Ten Cate’s tactical acumen and leadership qualities align perfectly with the organization’s ambition to elevate the national team’s competitive level. SVB officials expressed confidence that his proven track record in high-pressure environments will optimally prepare the squad for their upcoming challenges.
General Manager Brian Tevreden will collaborate closely with Ten Cate in the coming weeks to finalize squad selection and develop a comprehensive preparation program ahead of the decisive playoff matches. The technical staff will also be expanded with additional assistant coaches to strengthen the support system around the national team.
This appointment represents a significant milestone in Surinamese football as the nation seeks to qualify for its first World Cup tournament. The March 2026 playoffs represent the final hurdle in Suriname’s journey to potentially secure a place in global football’s premier competition.