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Azkals face tough battles at AFC Asian Cup 2019

DUBAI: The Philippine Azkals are prepping up for what is expected to be tough battles ahead in the upcoming AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 as they face up against formidables South Korea, China and Kyrgyzstan for what could yet be another defining moment the national men’s football team.

The boys from the Philippines landed in Group C together with three opponents  in their first stint in the continental tournament slated January 5 to February 1 in the United Arab Emirates next year.

The draw was held May 4 at the Armani Hotel in the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.

A total prize money of US$50 million will be given away, including $5 million for the champion of the tournament, which features 24 teams.

Last March, the Azkals pulled off the biggest achievement yet in local football by beating Tajikistan, 2-1, in the qualifiers and booking the country’s first ever slot in the quadrennial meet.

“The Asian Cup has a rich history and to be one of the 24 teams competing is already an honor for Philippine Football,” Philippine Football Federation (PFF) president Mariano Araneta Jr. was quoted by Rappler as saying in a statement posted on the association’s official website.

“We look forward to the Philippine Men’s National Team as they make history by competing in the Asian Cup. We also hope the Filipino fans in the United Arab Emirates will flock to the stadium to support the team in their matches,” he said.

Schedule
• Monday, Jan.7 at 5:30pm Philippines vs South Korea at Al Maktoum Stadium (Dubai)
• Friday, Jan.11 at 5:30pm Philippines vs China PR at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium (Abu Dhabi)
• Wednesday Jan. 16 at 5:30pm Philippines vs Kyrgyzstan at Rashid Stadium (Dubai)

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