Chinese praise Azkals; Patiño returns a hero

Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

THE PHILIPPINES’ stunning 3-2 victory over North Korea last Tuesday night also created ripples in China, which benefitted from the Azkals’ win as it helped the Chinese side qualify for the third round of 2019 World Cup Qualifying.

The Chinese beat Qatar, 2-0, in their final group match, but they also needed a string of results to go their way to qualify.

The Azkals’ victory over the 94th ranked North Korea turned out to be the most unexpected, yet most crucial result in China’s bid to make the next round.

Chinese football officials were so ecstatic with the Azkals victory they sent a congratulatory letter to Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta last Wednesday.

“We wish your team continued success,” said Zhang Jian in his letter.

In an online report on the Wall Street Journal, Chinese fans called the Philippines a “true friend” for helping their side progress amid China’s sweeping territorial claims in the South China Sea.

Chinese fans also found a way to express their gratitude to Javier Patiño, the Azkals’ Filipino-Spanish striker, who plays club football for Henan Jianye in the Chinese Super League.

Instrumental in all of the Azkals’ three goals against the Chollima, Patiño was given a hero’s welcome upon his arrival in China last Wednesday.