Kathmandu: Skipper Emelio Caligdong is determined that the Philippines' historic progression to the semi-finals of the AFC Challenge Cup will not be the end of the Azkals' achievements in Nepal as they prepare to take on Turkmenistan in Friday's final-four fixture.
An opening defeat to title holders DPR Korea was followed by stunning victories over 2008 winners India and inaugural champions Tajikistan with the performance of the Philippines one of the highlights of the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup.
The progression of the pre-tournament underdogs has captured the imagination of fans and media in the Philippines, Nepal and throughout Asia but Azkals captain Caligdong is insisting the job is far from over and that the team will by no means resting on their laurels.
"We are not here on holiday," the skilful left-winger quipped at a packed pre-match press conference.
"We are here to represent our country and to do the best we can."
Caligdong, who thought he had cleared Alexey Negmatov's header only for referee Ryuji Sato to have adjudged the ball had crossed the line as the Tajiks took a 1-0 lead against the run of play, stated confidently that the Philippines are more than capable of claiming another notable scalp when they take on the 2010 AFC Challenge Cup runners-up Friday.
"We are so happy to be here in the semi-final. We respect Turkmenistan but know we can beat them...anything is possible."
afc.com
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