Despite suffering from another loss against China PR, the Philippine Azkals said they continue to draw their strength from the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the UAE where the AFC Asian Cup is being held.
Azkals manager Dan Palami said that they dedicate their performance to OFWs in the UAE who decided to live away from their families in the Philippines to seek for better opportunities overseas, reported Inquirer.
“If the team is battling it out on the pitch, our OFWs here also have their own battles here every day missing their families, that’s why we’re dedicating our games to them,” said Palami.
Azkals player Patrick Reichelt added that they are overwhelmed with the support showed by Filipinos in the UAE who watched their games.
“It’s amazing seeing that although it’s far from home, we do have so much support. Its incredible and it helps us a lot, Reichelt said.
On January 11, the Philippine Azkals ended their second match in the group stage of their debut in the AFC Asian Cup with a defeat, 3-0, against the heavily favored China PR.
The Philippines and the China heated up Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium with almost equivalent ball possessions with solid defense from both teams.
The match was attended by 16,013 football fans and supporters of mostly comprised of Filipinos and Chinese.
The Azkals will next take on Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday at Al-Maktoum Stadium for their last group stage game.
