Singapore appointed as host for 2020 AFF Suzuki Cup

The Philippine Azkals will head to Singapore after it was appointed as the host country for the 2020 AFF Suzuki Cup slated for December 5, 2021 to January 1, 2022.

The announcement was made by ASEAN Football Federation on Tuesday and the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) was elated over the news as Singapore has an impressive track record in hosting major tournaments.

Singapore is also one of Asian countries that has a lower number of COVID-19 cases.

"We are confident that this year’s AFF Suzuki Cup will be conducted with the health and safety of players and staff as the main priority amid the COVID-19 pandemic," said PFF president Mariano "Nonong" Araneta.

"Now that the host country has been determined, the PFF can now map out its plans with the management of the Philippine Men’s National Team in preparation for the tournament. Like the rest of Southeast Asia, we are excited to witness the best football the region has to offer in the AFF Suzuki Cup."

The Azkals have been drawn in Group A along with powerhouse teams from Thailand, Myanmar, Singapore, and the winner between Brunei and Timor-Leste. Group B, meanwhile, is composed of defending champion Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Laos.

The Philippines has had good showing at the Suzuki Cup, reaching the semifinal stage in 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2018, where the country was also pitted against Thailand, Singapore, and Timor Leste.

"Singapore is not in the red list in terms of COVID-19 restrictions in other countries so I think traveling there will be easier. What is important for us is to assemble the right team for this tournament considering all the restrictions on different countries from where our players will come from," added Azkals team manager Dan Palami.

"We set our ambitions high and we will represent the country in the best way we can." — LA, GMA News