Friendlies, camps to toughen up Azkals

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Azkals, now under new coach Terry Butcher, are lining up a series of friendlies and training camps both overseas and at home to gear up for two major tournaments, the Asean Football Federation Suzuki Cup in November-December and the Asian Cup in January 2019.

Former England captain Butcher will get his first taste of action at the helm in September, when the Azkals fly to Bahrain for their pre-Suzuki Cup sessions, according to team manager Dan Palami.

“We’ve made plans for a training camp in Bahrain in September. We’re confirmed to play against Bahrain in the first week of September and we hope to play another team whilst there,” said Palami.

The following month, a friendly at home is in the pipeline.

“In October, we want to bring the (Filipino) fans back to Rizal (Memorial Stadium) to play against a strong team or two at Rizal,” said Palami.

Butcher will have his baptism of fire for Phl XI in the Nov. 8-Dec. 15 Suzuki Cup, where the Azkals are eyeing redemption after missing the semifinals in 2016. The Pinoy booters are in Group B, bracing for tough outings against Singapore (home), Timor Leste or Brunei (away), defending champion Thailand (home) and Indonesia (away).