Even without moniker, PH XI still source of PH pride

Whether the Philippine men’s football team succeeds in its goal of reaching the final of the Asean Mitsubishi Electric Cup for the first time or not, there’s reason for supporters to take pride in the unbelievable run that seemed improbable after undergoing a rough transition phase.

“I’m sure that our fans will not cry,” said coach Albert Capellas as the Philippines tries to get at least a draw against powerhouse Thailand in the second leg of their semifinal tie at Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium at press time for the right to face Vietnam for the title.

Capellas seems to have clapped back at Thailand defender Chalermsak Aukkee, who said that the Filipino side “will cry again because we will prevent them from getting to the final.” Team Philippines gained the advantage after a dramatic 2-1 first-leg win at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

A draw’s enough

At least a draw is needed to secure a seat in the two-legged final against Vietnam, which disposed Singapore in the other semis following a 3-1 win Sunday at home in Viet Tri to prevail 5-1 on aggregate.

If the Philippines advances, it will fly to Vietnam for the opening leg of the final on Thursday, Jan 2, before returning to Manila to host the return match on Sunday, Jan. 5, at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

“[Our fans] will feel very proud, no matter what. If we win, if we draw, if we lose, I’m sure they will feel very proud,” added Capellas, who was hired in September as part of a whirlwind 2024 for the men’s national football team.

The calendar year started with long-time national men’s football team manager Dan Palami stepping down after 14 years, highlighted by the “Miracle in Hanoi” of 2010 when the Philippines stunned host Vietnam in the group stage of the same tournament.

Ex-national team striker Freddy Gonzalez took over Palami’s position apart from his role as the Philippine Football Federation’s director for senior national teams. German mentor Michael Weiss’ contract was not renewed and Belgian Tom Saintfiet took charge in February, eventually lasting six months before the Catalonian-born Capellas came in Saintfiet’s formal introduction, however, was overshadowed when Gonzalez confirmed that the men’s team ditched the popular Azkals moniker moving forward, a move that upset most local football fans.

Plans to have a new moniker have not taken serious strides since. INQ