PFF plans tougher Peace Cup field next year

FOLLOWING the resounding success of the national side in the Paulino Alcantara Peace Cup, Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta yesterday disclosed plans to hold another four-nation tournament next year with more formidable teams.

Speaking at the PSA Forum yesterday, Araneta said the PFF plans to invite Southeast Asian powerhouse Singapore for the tournament next year.

“I think if we do it again next year, we should have stronger teams,” he said.

The Azkals wrested the country’s first international crown in 99 years after pulling off a three-match sweep of the tournament, and Araneta said the victory was the reward for the Azkals’ preparations, particularly the training camp in the United States last August.

The Azkals discovered Demitrius Omphroy and Matthew Uy in that camp and the duo proved critical to the title run.

“I think the win just showed that if players are given a chance, they can deliver,” said Araneta.

The Azkals leave for Bahrain on Oct. 6 to continue their preparations for the AFF Suzuki Cup in Thailand next month. Araneta said matching the semifinal finish in 2010 will be a “big achievement” for the national side.

While the Azkals also took their preparations up a notch, Araneta said teams like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia have also been undergoing extensive preparations overseas.

“We’re not the only team preparing,” Araneta added.

He said he has left it to the Azkals’ management to decide on whether or not to include brothers Phil and James Younghusband back into the lineup.

“They are still part of the pool,” said Araneta. “We leave it up to the coaching staff to handle this matter.”