18 June 2025

PFF: Freddy Gonzalez Concludes Role as Director of National Teams

 June 17, 2025 ; MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) announces that Freddy Gonzalez has concluded his tenure as PFF Senior National Teams Director and Men’s National Team Manager.

“It has been one of the biggest honors of my life to be a part of this team and I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity. This was a very difficult decision to make and one that required much reflection and introspection,” said Gonzalez in a statement. “Now is the time for me to focus on other pursuits and opportunities, both personal and professional.”

“I want to thank all of the players for their sacrifices and commitment to the team. They all have changed the culture of the National Team. In such a short time, they have made a difference in Philippine football, for the better. I am looking forward to seeing them become a force in Asia, and will be rooting for them from the sidelines. It was an absolute privilege!”

Gonzalez’s time in charge will be remembered for having started an influx of exciting young talent into the National Teams, establishing a new level of professionalism to their operations, and steering the Men’s National Team to a historic run in the ASEAN Championship and a promising start in the Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers.

PFF President John Gutierrez acknowledged Gonzalez’s contribution to the federation and thanked him for his service to Philippine football: “We are grateful for Freddy’s dedication and contributions during his tenure with the PFF, most especially his efforts to advance our national team programs. We truly thank him for his service.”

“The PFF remains fully committed to building upon the foundations laid for Philippine football. We assure the players that we will continue Fred’s framework for the national team, diligently ensuring our programs are well-supported and thriving. We are dedicated to providing every available resource, and with the support of football stakeholders, we look forward to continued progress and success for our national teams in the months and years ahead,” Gutierrez concluded.

Along with Gonzalez, Assistant Team Manager Mikkel Paris will also be departing from his role. The PFF will soon make an announcement on the leadership of the National Teams moving forward.


PFF: Freddy Gonzalez Concludes Role as Director of National Teams - Philippine Football Federation

17 June 2025

Online speculations mount over 'resignation of top PFF official'

by Reuben Terrado

HAS Freddy Gonzalez stepped down as director of national teams of the Philippine Football Federation?

Fans online have been expressing their displeasure over multiple reports of another high-profile official of the PFF stepping down from a top position in the national federation.

Manila Standard columnist Erel Cabatbat tweeted about a "popular official" who he said has resigned from this post following an incident during a recent game.

Online speculations over 'resignation of top PFF official'

10 June 2025

Bjørn Kristensen brace salvages draw for Philippines against Tajikistan in Asian Cup Qualis

 

Bjørn Kristensen delivered a stellar two-goal performance to help the Philippine Men’s National Football Team secure a 2-2 draw against Tajikistan in the third qualifying round of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup on Tuesday at the New Clark City Stadium in Tarlac.

Kristensen, now with eight goals in just 13 international appearances, struck the equalizer in the 79th minute after capitalizing on a defensive lapse by the Tajikistan backline. The shot salvaged a crucial point for the home side in front of 10,854 fans.

The Filipino-Norwegian forward’s brace ensured that Carles Cuadrat’s squad remained unbeaten in Group A, despite falling behind just before halftime.

Kristensen had given the Philippines a dream start in the 28th minute, heading home after Gerrit Holtmann’s free kick ricocheted off the crossbar.

However, the visitors responded quickly.

Just two minutes later, a poor clearance from Jefferson Tabinas allowed Mabatshoev Shervoni to fire a shot that slipped past goalkeeper Kevin Ray Mendoza, leveling the match at 1-1.

Tajikistan then took the lead in the 42nd minute.

Umarbaev Parvizdzhon calmly converted a penalty awarded by Iranian referee Hasan Akrami, following a foul by Jesper Nyholm on midfielder Ehson Panshanbe inside the box.

Despite trailing at halftime, the Philippines fought back, and Kristensen’s late equalizer preserved their top spot in Group A.

Both teams now sit on four points after two matches, but the Philippines hold the edge with a superior goal difference of +3 compared to Tajikistan’s +1.

Both sides will resume their campaigns on October 9. The Philippines will travel to face Timor Leste, while Tajikistan will host the Maldives in Dushanbe.

https://tiebreakertimes.com.ph/tbt/bjorn-kristensen-brace-salvages-draw-for-philippines-against-tajikistan-in-asian-cup-qualis/339752

AFC Asian Cup Qualifier - Philippines 2-2 Tajikistan

 

28 Min 1-0 Kristensen

30 Min 1-1 Mabatshoyev

42 mins 1-2 Umarbayev

1-2 HT

2-2 Kristensen










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