A WEEK after knowing the Philippines’ opponent in the first round of 2014 Brazil World Cup qualifying, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has expressed high hopes to enter the medal tally of the 26th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games this November in Indonesia.
The PFF President Mariano Araneta said he already gave “Azkals” team manager the full authority to form the best Under-23 squad that would challenge Southeast Asia’s powerhouse and reigning champion Malaysia, Vietnam and Singapore.
“I’m hoping we can win a medal in this coming SEA Games,” said Araneta, noting the SEA Games Federation Council will allow three overage players per team. “They may allow three overage players but the coaching staff will take care of it.”
Azkals head coach German Hans Michael Weiss will also handle the team during preparation and competition proper.
Palami aims to end the medal drought since Philippines participated in
the 1977 SEAG by creating the strongest and youngest football team. He will also serve as team manager of the team.
It will be a multitasking job for the PFF as it also prepares for the World Cup qualifying first round where the Azkals battle Sri Lanka in June and July besides the coming SEAG U-23 event and next year’s Asian Football Confederation Challenge Cup main draw.
JOSEF T. RAMOS
Manila Times
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Even the strongest possible U-23's for this year's SEA Games won't be strong enough for a medal. There's just not enough experience especially with the defenders (who ever they will be).
ReplyDelete3 over age players? I would put Ali, Aldeguer and Jmaes or Phil(if not injured)
ReplyDeleteSEA Games never been with three overages players before ?
ReplyDeleteI think the PFF wants to much at on once at the moment. A medal I think is out of reach. Even we can add 3 over age players, but the other teams will do the same. Additional I still see teams like Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam one step in front of us. So step by step ....you can't get success with a crowbar. Important is the team will show a solid performance, the rest is a nice bonus.
ReplyDeleteYa, jonny is right. This isn't the Olympics or Asian Games... SEA Games is strictly an U-23 tournament with NO over aged players.
ReplyDeleteThis is really exciting... I am looking forward that our National Team will make it just stay away from destructions of Showbiz. God bless our team.
ReplyDelete"ben said...
ReplyDelete3 over age players? I would put Ali, Aldeguer and Jmaes or Phil(if not injured)"
or not making TV ads, photo shoots and other things that prevent them playing.
Why does no one like James more than Phil? is it cause hes more dorky looking?