The Azkals need the support of the Filipino football community.
Just a month before the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers begin, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has introduced the rallying cry for their qualifying campaign: "Stand Your Ground: 10K Strong!"
The national team is beginning its FIFA World Cup journey with high hopes as it aims to recapture the days when fans filled the Rizal Memorial Stadium to support the team.
The Azkals find themselves in a group with Iraq, as well as regional rivals Vietnam and Indonesia.
PFF president Mariano Araneta emphasized the indispensable role played by the fans in the team's success and called on everyone to unite behind the squad.
“As the Azkals embark on another historic World Cup qualifiers campaign, our objective is to make them feel the support of the fans. Let us rally behind our team and show that we can pack Rizal Memorial Stadium. Let us stand our ground for our team and for our country,” said Araneta.
The Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Manila, which has a capacity of 12,873, has been chosen as the venue for the Azkals' matches.
The stadium has witnessed significant moments in the past 12 years, including their first World Cup Qualifiers victory over Sri Lanka, Stephan Schrock's memorable goal against Kuwait in 2011, a historic win against DPR Korea in 2016, and securing a place in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup with a remarkable comeback against Tajikistan in 2018.
PFF general secretary Mikhail Torre views this campaign as an opportunity to boost support for the Azkals and Philippine football, especially in a year where the Philippine Women's National Team made history by participating in the FIFA Women's World Cup.
“We want to finish the year strong,” said Torre. “Our Filipinas did an amazing job in New Zealand and now it’s the Azkals’ turn to play at home.”
The campaign is structured into three key aspects. First, they aim to enhance the fan experience, offering good food, beverages, mini-games, and entertainment at the match venue.
Second, they plan an extensive promotional campaign through social media, videos, influencers, and fan-generated content, while also engaging with communities like schools, football clubs, and academies to invite them to witness the matches live.
The third part focuses on ensuring the sustainability of this initiative, encouraging fans to keep returning to future home matches.
Torre stressed the importance of collaboration between the PFF and the fans to make this campaign a triumph.
“We hope this can reignite the fire that once gave people hope that we can perform at the highest level,” said Torre.
Details regarding tickets for the match against Vietnam on November 16 will be announced soon.
(CF)