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

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'

PFF Women's League Saturday - Stallion Laguna 1-1 Kaya Fc

 

PFF Women's League Saturday - Makiti Fc 2-1 Capital1 Solar Strikers

 

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

𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝗮𝘁 𝗛𝗢𝗠𝗘! Tajikistan 7:00 PM PHT New Clark City Athletics Stadium Watch us LIVE on our official Facebook Page, official Youtube channel, Pilipinas Live, OneSports+, and OneSports

International Women's Friendly - Philippines 0-1 Chinese Taipei

 Official livestream :

PHILIPPINES vs CHINESE TAIPEI OFFICIAL FRIENDLY MATCH

The Philippine Men’s National Football Team announces that Albert Capellas’ time as head coach has come to a close

 

May 31, 2025 ; MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Men’s National Football Team announces that Albert Capellas’ time as head coach has come to a close. Recently appointed assistant, Carles Cuadrat, is set to take on the responsibility of leading the team in the interim.

"My wonderful journey as head coach of the Philippine National Football Federation has come to an end and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have been part of it especially the players and all the staff involved, the Director of National Teams Freddy Gonzalez, and the President John Gutierrez,” said Albert Capellas in a statement.

“Together, we have enjoyed an inspiring journey and have proven that Filipino football has a promising generation of young players with the potential to bring great pride and success to

the country. I am sincerely grateful for the time we have shared and for the support and kindness I’ve received from the entire Filipino football community. I will always carry these memories with me and wish the Federation and the team continued growth and success in the years to come. With gratitude, Albert Capellas.”

Capellas’ departure ends an eight-month spell that included an historic first-ever semi-final victory in the ASEAN Championships, and a first victory over Thailand in five decades. He leaves the team having provided a triumphant start to the country’s Asian Cup Qualifying campaign, with a 4-1 victory over Maldives at the New Clark City Stadium in March.

“Personal reasons have led to Albert’s departure. Out of great respect for him, we will not elaborate. We are grateful for his service, and wish him well. I continue to consider him a friend.”, said Men’s Team Manager and Director of Senior National Football Teams, Freddy Gonzalez.

“As with all things in life, change happens and one must always be prepared to handle unexpected turns. We move on, and keep pushing forward. Albert left us with a blueprint to follow and we thank him for bringing Carles on board, enabling him to be the interim head coach and provide continuity for what Albert has started. Now is the time to focus on the match with Tajikistan and push to be top of the group and focus on qualifying for the Asian

Cup.”

Carles Cuadrat will bring vast experience, having worked with the National Teams of Saudi Arabia and El Salvador, as well as top European clubs like Barcelona Youth, Galatasaray and Midtjylland. Most recently, as head coach he steered East Bengal FC to their first trophy in over a decade.

The Philippines next plays recent Asian Cup Quarterfinalists, Tajikistan, on June 10 at the New Clark City Stadium. The Asian Cup Qualifying match will kickoff at 7:00PM. Tickets are

available at www.ticketmax.ph. The game will also be aired on One Sports, One Sports+, and Pilipinas Live.

Direct Link to Match Tickets: https://www.ticketmax.ph/.../afc-asian-cup-2027.../

Photo and press release courtesy of Philippine Men's National Football Team