Noel Marcaida Feeling Positive Ahead of Azkals’ China Match Impressed by the Philippines' slim defeat to South Korea, Noel Marcaida feels the Azkals can do one better against China.

After impressing in the slim defeat to South Korea four days ago, the Philippine National Football Team is hoping to do one better when they face China on Friday night. Although the team led by Sven Goran Eriksson currently sits at the bottom of Group C, the valiant effort in their first outing has raised spirits ahead of a crucial encounter.

Kaya FC–Iloilo head coach Noel Marcaida is among those that feel the Philippines, despite being among the lowest ranked teams in the competition, has a massive opportunity to spring one of the upsets of the tournament.

“South Korea is on a different level. They always play in the World Cup, and they beat Germany in the last one 2-0. Having a result of 1-0 is a great result. I’m really impressed with how they committed themselves in defending. It was really a collective effort,” he said.

Marcaida was particularly impressed with Stephan Schrock, who Noel felt really set the tone with his work rate. Coach Noel also singled out Alvaro Silva, Patrick Strauss, Michael Falkesgaard, and Javier Patiño for their exceptional performances.

“In general, it was a very impressive performance. But if we want to have a good result against China and Kyrgyz Republic, we need to improve on having the ball and creating chances,” he added.

“It’s going to be a tough game but surely our Azkals will do their best and motivation for sure is high. They’ve already proved that the Azkals belong in the Asian Cup and as a Filipino coach, I’m proud of their achievements. If the recovery of the team over the last four days was managed well, I would say that our team can manage a good performance against China.”

Pressed to make prediction on the result, Marcaida didn’t rule out getting maximum points against the Chinese.

“We had only a few chances against South Korea, but those chances were very dangerous. I’m positive that we can get better chances against China. The players coming off the bench will be vital later in the game. I’ll go for a draw, but if we me manage more chances, the Azkals might have a chance to get the three points.”