AFC Cup: Global XI tests South China FC

MANILA, Philippines—Reigning United Football League champion Global makes its AFC Cup debut against Hong Kong powerhouse South China Wednesday night at Rizal Memorial Field, marking another historic feat for the country whose national team has paved the way for sparking renewed interest in the sport.

Kickoff is at 8 p.m. with Global looking to make an impact as the first Filipino squad to qualify to the group stage in the second-tier club competition in the continent.

While the Azkals have been the focal point of the sport’s rise as Filipino clubs remain relative greenhorns at the international level, Global’s qualification in the continental tournament is seen as validation of the inroads that football has made in the country.

The club is bent on delivering a strong performance as the country’s lone representative after Ceres FC bowed out in qualifying last week.

“This is a big challenge for us and we must make sure that we represent the Philippines well in the tournament,” said Global chief executive Dan Palami, who also manages the Azkals.

South China will be a stern test for Global, having qualified to the tournament for the sixth time this year. The Hong Kong side reached the semifinals in 2009, its best finish in the tournament.