Coming off a disappointing AFF Suzuki Cup campaign late last year, the Philippines looks to start its 2017 campaign on a positive note when it battles Malaysia in a friendly on Wednesday night at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Back at full-strength after three key players missed out on their last competition, where they failed to advance from the group stage, the Azkals intend to use the clash with their Southeast Asian rivals as a tuneup for their AFC Asian Cup Qualifying match with Nepal on Tuesday.
Azkals captain Phil Younghusband feels the fresh start will help the team shake off the disappointment of last season.
“It’s good to be back and see all the players again,” said Younghusband.
“It’s a very important game for us to get our focus back,” said Azkals coach Thomas Dooley.