PFF to reassess future of Azkals program after underwhelming AFF stint

Philippine Azkals in the final game of the Mitsubishi Electric Cup. – PHOTO CONTRIBUTION

MANILA, Philippines–The Philippine Football Federation has pledged to re-evaluate the future of the Azkals program after a disappointing campaign in the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Mitsubishi Electric Cup.

PFF President Nonong Araneta acknowledged the need to atone for AFF’s woes in a statement released a day after the Azkals ended their stint with a 2-1 loss to Indonesia at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

“I want to thank the players and staff for their hard work and sacrifices representing the country in the Mitsubishi Electric AFF Cup even in the off season,” Araneta said.

“The Azkals may not qualify for the semi-finals, but we can see some positives because they can give opportunities to younger players that bode well for the future of the team. We will prepare the team better for the next cycle of World Cup and Asian Cup Qualifiers . Now we will use the break to re-evaluate and plan for the future,” he said.

Ultras Filipinas have made a protest sign about the struggle of the Azkals in the Mitsubishi Electric AFF Cup

Call sign for PFF to “One some F ****** Fight” | @jonasterradoINQ pic.twitter.com/deaeYue0hh

– INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) January 2, 2023

No further details have been made, but the combined qualifiers will not start until October.

The Azkals are only fourth in Group A with three points, losing three matches while winning just once at the expense of Brunei.

Coached by Josep Ferre, the Azkals chose to inject local-based players including youngsters, who are far from a veteran team in the new competition.

Team captain Stephan Schrock, who played his last match for the national team, is the oldest man on the roster at 36 years old.

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