MANILA – The Philippine Azkals is up for challenge after being grouped with tougher teams in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup.
Azkals was drawn in Group C along with powerhouse squads South Korea, China and Kyrgyzstan.
“No easy group for a debutant in this competition,” Azkals team manager Dan Palami said in a statement. “We will have to be in our best form and, for this, the best preparation is needed.”
Despite the tough assignment, Philippine Football Federation President Mariano “Nonong” Araneta remains optimistic that the national men’s football squad can make history.
“The AFC Asian Cup has a rich history and to be one of the 24 teams competing is already an honor for Philippine football,” Araneta said.
The draw of lots held last Friday night at the Armani Hotel in Dubai.
Mentored by Thomas Dooley, Azkals reached the AFC Asian Cup for the first time after its come-from-behind 2-1 victory over Tajikistan in the qualifier’s group stage on March 26 at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
A total of $15 million is up for grabs in the competition, with the champion winning $5 million and the runners-up getting $3 million.
Participating teams earn $200,000 just by being there./PN
