The Philippine Azkals are back and gearing up for a return to the international football scene, competing in the prestigious ASIA 7’s Championships from 09 to 12 October 2024, at the EV Arena Elmina in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This event marks a crucial moment for Philippine football, as the Azkals prepare to showcase their talent and determination against some of the continent’s top teams.
The team will be co-captained by former Philippine Men’s National Football Team skippers Stephan Schrock and Misagh Bahadoran. Both players are thrilled to don the national colors again, seeing this as a continuation of the Azkals’ legacy. Schrock emphasized the importance of keeping the Azkals’ name alive, highlighting how the team has become a symbol of hope and perseverance in Philippine football. Bahadoran echoed this sentiment, expressing his pride in representing the country once more.
Veteran footballer Hamed Hajimahdi will lead the Azkals as their head coach, while Patrick Ace Bright will serve as the Team Manager, overseeing the team’s preparations and participation in the tournament.
The ASIA 7’s Championships, established in 2002, is the premier Asian International 7-a-side tournament, drawing national teams from various countries across the continent. Eight teams, including Malaysia, India, Japan, China, Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines, have confirmed their participation, with five more expected to join.
Anton Del Rosario, the Tournament Commissioner, highlighted the significance of this event, viewing it as a crucial step towards expanding the popularity and reach of 7-a-side football in Asia. He envisions the tournament potentially rivaling the Asian Football Confederation’s competitions in prominence.
The Azkals are still in the process of finalizing their roster, with tryouts scheduled for 07 and 08 September 2024. A tune-up match against celebrity football players is planned for 06 October 2024, where the final lineup will likely be revealed.
In addition to the ASIA 7’s Championships, Norman Fegidero has been named the interim coach of the Philippines Men’s Football Team for the Merdeka Cup, also set to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Fegidero will be supported by the coaching staff from the Philippines Women’s National Football Team (formerly known as the Malditas; now called Filipinas), including head coach Mark Torcaso and his assistants, who have been included in Fegidero’s staff for the invitational tournament.