Azkals leave for Doha training camp

MANILA, Philippines — The AFC Challenge Cup-bound Philippines squad enters another crucial phase of its buildup for the continental tournament as it leaves for training camp in Doha Tuesday.

The highlight of the Azkals’ weeklong camp will be friendly matches against Nepal on Friday and against local club Al-Ahli on April 14.

Held scoreless in their first two games against quality opponents, the Azkals are showing a developing system of play.

“The first phase of the training of the coach (Thomas Dooley) was developing a style of play, building up from the defense,” said Azkals manager Dan Palami.

Dooley’s team is made up mostly of United Football League players with only England-based Rob Gier, Juani Guirado from Spain and Martin Steuble from Switzerland as the only Europe-based players in the 22-man roster.

The Azkals suffered a huge blow at the critical leftback position with Jeffrey Christiaens facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines because of a foot injury.

Fil-Japanese Daisuke Sato will replace Christiaens.

Global rightback Charles Pettys and winger Curt Dizon were also given spots to the national pool for the first time.