Azkals-Azeris friendly set on March 5

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines steps up its buildup for the AFC Challenge Cup as it tangles with European side Azerbaijan in an international friendly on March 5 in Dubai.

The Philippine Football Federation Monday said it has accepted the invitation of its Azerbaijan counterparts to play in a Fifa international friendly date.

The Azkals, who are also traveling to Kuala Lumpur for a friendly against Malaysia on March 1, are expected to field a full-strength side with the Europe-based players available for selection.

It will mark the first time in 17 years that the Filipinos will play against a European nation.

The Philippines lost to Estonia, 1-0, in a friendly in Manila in 1997.

“We cannot pass up the invitation of Azerbaijan to a friendly,” said PFF president Mariano Araneta. “It will be a good exposure for our national team.”