Philippine Azkals prepare for historic Asian Cup debut

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The Philippines as a footballing country has come a long way from what it once was during the days of Iloilo-born Barcelona FC netbreaker Paulino Alcantara, notable for his goal scoring record of 369 goals in 357 games that stood the test of time until Leonel Messi who is regarded as one of the best football players of all time, overtook him on March 16, 2014.

It is hard to fathom that such a basketball crazy country also excels in a sport that remains uncommon too many Filipinos today. Who could believe that Japan, who took part in the recently concluded World Cup in Russia, recorded its biggest loss in international competition against The Philippines, 15-2?

The Azkals is the nickname for the Philippine national football team. The recent influx of fil-foreigners who have plied their skills in competitive leagues in Europe to don the country's colors have revitalized interest for a sport that has long played second fiddle.

Drawing from the so-called "Miracle of Hanoi" in 2010 when The Azkals beat the then defending champions, Vietnam. The sport has gained steady growth from packed stadiums, to better youth programs and a professional league that is currently on its second season.

This year also saw the Azkals qualify for its first ever Asian cup when they defeated a feisty Tajikistan side, 2-1 to ensure our national team a spot in the 2019 competition in the United Arab Emirates. A milestone achievement to further the sport’s credibility and excitement in the country.

Currently, the team is preparing for the AFF Championship where they start their campaign in the group stages against Singapore on November 13 in Ceres-Negros' Panaad Stadium in Bacolod City. In the group with them are Thailand and Indonesia.

This will also be their first outing with newly appointed head coach, Scott Cooper. The AFF Championship will be a good testing ground for the preparations and adjustments that Cooper has made to ready the Azkals to prepare for its first ever Asian Cup.

The Philippine football community is buzzing with renewed hopes that the Azkals continue their momentum and reach even higher rankings than ever before, scoring significant victories in 2019. It is a great time to be a fan of the Azkals, it is a great time to follow Philippine football!

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