CONFIDENT in the Philippine Azkals’ drive, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. has committed P2 million to the national men’s football team trip to the Asian Challenge Cup group stage kicking off in Myanmar on March 21.
"We would like to thank Pagcor for believing in the Filipino booters and funding their stint to Myanmar," said Philippine Football president Mariano Araneta Jr. "This should spur our boys in performing better in Mongolia."
Armed with a 2-0 edge after beating the Blue Wolves last Feb. 9 in Bacolod City, the Azkals need only a draw against their rivals when they tangle anew in Ulan Bator on March 15 to advance to the Asian Challenge Cup group stage.
Should the nationals prevail, they will compete with Bangladesh, Palestine and the host nation in a single-round battle for the top two slots to the regular draw of the Asian Challenge Cup in 2012.
Although the Pinoy booters lost 0-4 to a Japanese collegiate squad in their first tune-up match in freezing conditions in Japan last Wednesday, Araneta said there is no reason to be anxious about their form in Mongolia.
They were scheduled to have another game Tuesday in Gotemba City at the foot of Mount Fuji where temperatures hovered between 0 to 6-degree Celsius over the past week.
"This was the first time they played in this kind of weather and the result was understandable since they are still adjusting," Araneta said.
"I remain confident about our chances in UIan Bator," added Araneta, who is scheduled to leave for Mongolia late Saturday night.
/via Malaya (Bong Pedralvez, 3/11/2011)
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