MANILA – The Philippine men’s U-23 football team is set to begin its campaign in the AFC U23 Championship 2020 Qualifiers, which is slated from March 22 to 26 in Malaysia.
The players called up for the competition were mostly those who were part of the Philippine men’s U-22 team that participated in the recent AFF U22 Championship 2019 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Bannering the squad were Javier Gayoso, Dylan De Bruycker, Troy Limbo, Mariano Suba Jr., Daniel Saavedra, Jerome Marzan, Mark Magtoto, Kyle Magdato, Vincent Lovitos, Christian Lapaz, Earl Laguerta, and Jeremiah Borlongan.
Also in the team were Ray Sanciangco, James Mansueto, Jordan Jarvis, William Jay Grierson, Major Dean Ebarle, Jose Miguel Clarino, Winces Balbino, Lawrence Baguio, Jessie Semblante, Kenry Balobo, and Michael Asong.
Serving as the head coach of the team, which is also being eyed for the 30th Southeast Asian Games, is Salvador Salvacion and assisted by Coaches Randolfo Clarino, Christopher Pedimonte, and Ralph Datoy.
The Philippines is drawn to Group J and will face host Malaysia, China PR, and Laos. The tournament also serves as the qualifiers for the 2020 Men’s Olympic Football Tournament.
“We wish the Philippines Men’s Under-23 team good luck in the AFC U23 Championship 2020 Qualifiers,” said Philippine Football Federation general secretary Atty. Edwin Gastanes.
“It is a dream for each player to play in the Olympics someday. This tournament will also serve as an avenue for them to enhance their abilities in preparation for the 30th Southeast Asian Games later this year,” he added./PN
