The Philippines national soccer team, known as the "Azkals," has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. As one of the oldest national teams in Asia, the Philippines played their first international match in 1913 against China, which they won 2-1.

Major Successes

• ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Championship: The team has shown significant progress in recent years, notably reaching the semi-finals of the AFF Championship multiple times, including in 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2018. This marked a turning point in the team's competitiveness in Southeast Asian football.
• Asian Cup: The Philippines qualified for the AFC Asian Cup for the first time in their history in 2019, marking a significant achievement on the continental stage, although they did not advance past the group stage.
• Peace Cup Wins: The team won the Philippine Peace Cup in 2012, 2013, and 2014, demonstrating their strength in regional competitions.

Notable Players

• Phil Younghusband: A legendary forward for the Azkals, Phil is the team's all-time leading goal scorer. His contributions have been pivotal in the team's successes over the years.
• James Younghusband: Phil's older brother, James, has also been an influential player for the national team, known for his versatility and leadership on the field.
• Neil Etheridge: A talented goalkeeper who has played professionally in England, Neil has been a crucial figure in keeping the Azkals competitive in international matches.
• Stephan Schröck: Known for his skill and creativity, Schröck has been a key playmaker for the team, often leading by example with his performances.

Notable Coaches

• Hans Michael Weiss: Serving as the head coach from 2011 to 2014, Weiss is credited with elevating the team's performance, leading them to their first semi-final appearance in the AFF Championship.
• Thomas Dooley: Under Dooley's guidance from 2014 to 2018, the team qualified for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup, achieving a historic milestone for the Azkals.
• Scott Cooper: Appointed in 2018, Cooper has focused on further developing the team's tactical approach and integrating younger talents into the squad.

The Philippines national soccer team continues to be a competitive force in Southeast Asia, with ambitions to further establish themselves on the continental stage.