There will be no stones left unturned in the quest to finally qualify for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup
The Philippine Men’s National Football Team shall face Fiji on Thursday night at the historic Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila, to prepare for the make-or-break Asian Cup qualifier against Tajikistan five days later
“I would like to also thank Fiji that they’re helping us out in a way to come over all the way here and play against us,” commented Azkals coach Thomas Dooley. “Obviously the most important thing is the game against Tajikistan and it’s very difficult to find teams anyhow.”
“When I got the first notice about having a game against Fiji, I immediately said it would be perfect.”
Ranked 168th in the FIFA World Rankings, Fiji may not be the first country local football fans will have in mind for an international friendly, but it is still an official fixture at the end of the day.
“Any game is better than a training session,” quipped Dooley, who then added that players who may not have played often could be given minutes on Thursday night.
“The game tomorrow is important for us to try to do the kind of things we want to do against Tajikistan. But again the most important thing is not getting any more injuries. We have enough already.
“This game against Tajikistan is way too important but I’m very, very happy that (Fiji) decided to play against us. Coming over here. We don’t have to travel for a game. I appreciate that,” furthered the former USA international.
Azkals captain Phil Younghusband said, “We’re looking forward to the game. As players it’s always your proudest moment when you represent your country and it will be the same when we face Fiji tomorrow. It’s great for us players since we haven’t been with each other in a while. The last time we’ve been with each other was against Nepal last year.”
The perfect preparation for Dooley’s men would be a rousing win in front of the home fans, with no player getting hurt, after 90 minutes of play. If these conditions can be achieved, then fans, players, and coaches alike can turn their attention towards the Tajikistan gam,e where a draw or win will grant the Philippines its first ticket to the Asian Cup.
“As coach said, this will be a big test for us and a good preparation for the game (against Tajikistan) on the 27th,” concluded Younghusband.
