RP eleven improves Fifa rankings

By Cedelf P. Tupas
Philippine Daily Inquirer


THERE’S AN AIR OF OPTIMISM surrounding the impending arrival of British coach Desmond Bulpin, who has been tasked to handle the program and training of the Philippine football team.

Bulpin, who had coaching stints with the Tampine Rovers in the Singapore League and the Uzbekistan Under-17 team, will take over a national team that has leapt 35 places to No. 155 in the world rankings over the past year.

“This is very encouraging for our national team,” said Philippine Football Federation secretary general Cyril Dofitas. “Knowing that we have improved in the football world, our players will be motivated to play better.”

The Philippines failed to hurdle qualifying tournaments for the AFC Challenge Cup and the Asean Football Championships late last year.

Notwithstanding the losses, Dofitas said the international participation has helped sharpen up the team.

His statement was echoed by PFF technical director Aris Caslib.

“It has been a gruelling yet very competitive year for Philippine football,” Caslib said. “This year marks many developments for the PFF.”

“This is a very good way of telling the world that the PFF is doing everything to improve our image,” said Dofitas.