Fiji friendly up for Azkals

FILE — Philippine Azkals Photo by: Tristan Tamayo/Inquirer.net

The Philippines steps up its buildup for the biggest match in recent years as it collides with Fiji for the first time in an international friendly on Thursday night at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

The clash comes just five days before the Azkals meet Tajikistan in their final AFC Asian Cup qualifier, where the Filipinos need a draw to punch their ticket for the continental showpiece event in the United Arab Emirates early next year.

Michael Falkesgaard, the 26-year-old Filipino-Danish goalkeeper, who traces his roots in Roxas City, makes his debut for the Azkals, while striker Javier Patino remains doubtful following a long injury layoff. But other foreign-based players like Iain Ramsay, Pika Minegishi and Misagh Bahadoran are all available for selection.

“Any game is better than a training session so having Fiji here is good for us,” said Azkals coach Thomas Dooley, who started training camp last Saturday in preparation for the two matches.

“Most important is seeing players have fun,” said Dooley.

The Fijians are ranked 168th with their last two friendly matches resulting in a 0-2 loss to Estonia and a goalless draw against Indonesia.