Local Azkals headline Peace Cup

MANILA, Philippines—With the Europe-based players unavailable, the Philippine national side will rely on local-based talent as it plunges into action in the four-nation Paulino Alcantara Peace Cup kicking off Sept. 25 at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

The Azkals will have a different side than the one that played Singapore, Cambodia and Laos in friendly matches this month except for the addition of Filipino-Americans Matthew Uy and Demitrius Omphroy to the side.

Chieffy Caligdong is expected to lead the side, along with the prolific Phil and James Younghusband. Jeff Christiaens, who was a revelation at leftback in the three friendly matches, will also retain his place in the side.

Coach Michael Weiss said Uy and Omphroy are key figures in his battle plans in the absence of experienced players like Stephan Schrock, Neil Etheridge, Jerry Lucena, Paul Mulders and Rob Gier.

The Azkals, who are using the tournament to prepare for the AFF Suzuki Cup in November, face Guam on Sept. 25, before facing Macau two days later. Chinese-Taipei will be the Azkals’ last assignment on Sept. 29.

“We always have a new lineup, and it’s our strength and weakness at the same time,” said Weiss. “But we have built a good base and every player knows what to do when they come in.”