Philippine Azkals raring to keep Peace Cup plum

THE PHILIPPINE Azkals expect nothing less than another title in the second edition of the Philippine Peace Cup on Oct. 11 to 15 at Panaad Stadium in Bacolod City.

With a powerhouse cast, the Azkals are heavily favored for a repeat in the tournament that also kickstarts their preparations for the AFC Challenge Cup tournament in the Maldives in May.

The Azkals open their bid at 7 p.m. Friday against Chinese-Taipei, which they beat last year, 3-1, at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

The third team in the tournament, Pakistan, will be the Azkals’ foes on Oct. 15.

“Well, of course, we expect to be champions. I won’t settle for anything less,” said Azkals manager Dan Palami Monday night at Bonifacio Global City during the launch of the Azkals’ new kit created by Puma.

The Azkals manager said their eyes remain focused on the Challenge Cup, which will award an Asian Cup slot for the champion.