MANILA, Philippines — The Mongolian football players who will go up against the Philippines Azkals in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup on Wednesday have arrived in Bacolod.
After touching down in Manila, the Mongolian team went straight to Bacolod City, where they will see action at the Panaad Stadium.
The Mongolians are 182nd in the FIFA world rankings, behind the Philippines (152nd place).
The Azkals were also seen at the Panaad Stadium ahead of the clash.
With the recent arrival of Filipino-Europeans Rob Geir, Rob Jonsson, and Neil Etheridge, the Azkals are seen as a stronger team.
"It's great to be back with the team. I'm in great shape. They all look good as well and we hope to put on a good show for the fans against Mongolia," Etheridge, who turned 21 on Monday, said.
Ilonggo co-captain Chieffy Caligdong said that he is also excited to prove the team's capabilities in his own hometown against their foreign opponents.
"Masarap maglaro sa harap ng mga fans dito. Grabe ngayon ang supporta nila kahit saan kami pumunta," he said.
"Dati football player lang kami na 'di masyado pinapansin. Pero ngayon, iba na talaga," Caligdong added.
After their training session, the Azkals welcomed their fans' requests to have their pictures taken.
The 2 teams will have a press conference on Tuesday. — Report from TJ Manotoc, ABS-CBN News
GO! GO! GO! AZKALS,... YOU CAN BEAT THEM! :)
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