Stephan Palla. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
THE PHILIPPINES had just fashioned out one of the biggest upsets in the country’s footballing history and as fans milled around the team bus, Stephan Palla, one of four newcomers in the team, excitedly walked toward a group of people just as giddy to see him.
This was a special moment for the 27-year-old, who grew up in Austria, perhaps rivaling the time when he set out on the pitch wearing the country’s colors.
For Palla, this trip wasn’t just about making his debut for the Philippines in the 2-1 win over Bahrain at the start of World Cup Qualifying, but an opportunity to connect with family from his mother side who came from Las Piñas just to watch the match at Philippine Sports Stadium.
“There were lots of tears,” said Palla when asked how his first meeting with his family went. “I’m happy I’m here not just to play for the Philippines but to see my family.”
Palla put in a fine shift as left wingback against Bahrain, before he was substituted in the 65th minute. He is expected to play against Yemen on Tuesday as the Azkals go for their second win in Doha, Qatar.
Palla actually got married last June 6 and immediately flew to Manila for the match. He’s ditched his honeymoon plans in the Mediterranean in Sardinia as it ran in conflict with the Azkals’ matches.
But Palla is not complaining, saying the Azkals have also welcomed him with open arms.
“It’s completely different because everybody is so kind and always ready to help,” said Palla. “They have that Filipino mentality in the team.”