THE Philippine Men’s National Team campaigns in both the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 and AFF Suzuki Cup 2018 will be difficult.
But they will be up to the challenge said Azkals’ scoring ace Phil Younghusband following the conclusion of the draw ceremonies of the two tournaments last week.
“We were excited to qualify and I am excited with the group we are in. It will be a difficult challenge, but this is part of our development and is very exciting for Philippines football,” said Younghusband.
The Azkals will make their Asian Cup debut against Korea Republic on Jan. 7, 2019 at the Al Maktoum Stadium in Dubai.
Then, they face China on Jan. 11 at the Mohammad Bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
The last match of the group stage will be against Kyrgyz Republic on Jan. 16 at the Rashid Stadium in Dubai.
The Philippines secured qualification to the final round last March 27 after its 2-1 win over Tajikistan at the Rizal Memorial Stadium to win Group F with 12 points.
“We dreamt that one day we will have a team in the AFC Asian Cup, and now it has become a reality,” said Philippine Football Federation president Mariano V. Araneta Jr.