Azkals to defend Peace Cup title in Panaad

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals brace for a tough outing as they defend their football Peace Cup crown against Pakistan and Chinese Taipei next week at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.

Bacolod Mayor Monico Puentevella said the Pakistani and Taiwanese booters have confirmed participation in the event firing off Oct. 11. The two other playdates are on Oct. 13 and 15.

The Azkals beat the Taiwanese, 3-1, in last year’s finals at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila for the Philippines’ first international football crown in 99 years.

The Azkals are at No. 141 in the FIFA ranking with Pakistan at No. 170 and Chinese Taipei at No. 175.

Puentevella said he expects a banner crowd in the three-day tournament with the hosts a hotbed of football in the country.

“We know football and we have a deep passion for the game. Whether it’s the Azkals or the Ceres football team playing, I know that Panaad will be full. We are just as synonymous with football as we are with MassKara,” said Puentevella.

Meanwhile, Puentevella announced that action in Group F of the third PFF Smart National Club Championship will also be played in Panaad on Oct. 4-6 featuring teams from Iloilo, Capiz, Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental. 

Representing Negros Occidental will be defending champion Ceres-Negros FC.