Injured Chieffy Caligdong could miss Dubai stint, AFC tilt

MANILA, Philippines—A cloud of uncertainty hangs over Philippine Azkals co-skipper Chieffy Caligdong’s availability for the team’s training camp in Dubai next month and possibly, the AFC Challenge Cup in Nepal in March.

The initial prognosis on the fleet-footed winger’s injury he sustained last Saturday in a United Football League game against Army revealed a partial ACL tear.

Caligdong said he is still awaiting the final word on his injury from Dr. Randy Molo.

“I’m still in pain and my knee is still swollen,” Caligdong told the Inquirer on the phone Monday.

Playing for Air Force Phoenix last Saturday, the Barotac Nuevo-born striker bumped knees with Army defender Wilson dela Cruz late in the first half.

With Caligdong doubtful, the Azkals could be without two of their standouts in one of their most important tournaments yet.

Skipper Aly Borromeo has already ruled himself out for the March 9-13 tournament as he also recovers from an ACL injury.