Yeng Guiao: Gilas Pilipinas ‘would love to meet’ Duterte in World Cup

FOSHAN, China —Gilas Pilipinas head coach Yeng Guiao on Friday said that the national team is eager to meet President Rodrigo Duterte during his trip to China, which coincided with the FIBA World Cup.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said last week that the president is planning to watch the game against Italy to "personally cheer" for Gilas.

"Of course, we would love to meet the president before or after the game," Guiao told reporters after the team wrapped up their final practice before the tournament officially opens on Saturday.

Duterte earlier said Gilas cannot win against Italy, but may have the chance against Angola.

Italy has several NBA players in its roster, including Danilo Gallinari and Marco Belinelli. Gilas played a tuneup game against them back in 2016, losing by 36 points.

Guiao, however, is keeping a positive outlook about the team's chances against the Italians.

"We're hoping they still think that they can beat us by that much. Maybe that's going to make the feel a little bit more complacent," the coach said.

Aside from Italy and Angola, Gilas will also face world no. 4 and European powerhouse Serbia in Group D. —LDF, GMA News