Azkals eager to show hunger in friendlies vs Nepal as Weiss makes return

With returning coach Michael Weiss at the helm, the Philippine men's football team said they will show hunger as they face Nepal in a FIFA International Friendly match on Thursday night at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

The Azkals had their last friendly matches back in March where they fell to Kuwait (2-0) and Jordan (4-0).

"We have a short period of time and a few players have to pull out because of injuries but nevertheless we'll be hungry, we'll be happy to represent the country and we'll be fine to play offensive-oriented football tomorrow," Weiss said in a virtual press conference on Wednesday.

Among those who will miss the games are Manny Ott, Amani Aguinaldo, and Santi Rublico.

The short preparation time will also be a factor for the Azkals as Weiss was only named as the head coach again just last June 6.

Despite this, veteran Daisuke Sato said the friendlies will be the start of another chapter for the Azkals.

"With Coach Weiss now, we can achieve something together, really good things," Sato said.

At the end of the day, Sato said they are still ready to fight.

"Whoever the opponent is, I feel that we are forever underdogs."

"We will make sure we that we have hunger, we are the one who fights more, who wants [it] more. That's what's gonna happen tomorrow. We are ready for that.

Aside from Nepal, the Philippines will face Chinese Taipei in a friendly match on Monday.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News