Philippines coach makes prediction about the 2024 AFF Cup champion

The Philippines team created a big surprise at the AFF Cup 2024 when they forced Thailand into extra time in the second leg of the semi-final at Rajamangala Stadium on the evening of December 30. Previously, coach Albert Capellas and his team had won Thailand 2-1 in the first leg of the semi-final. Although Thailand had home advantage in the second leg, they only beat the Philippines with a total score of 4-3 thanks to a golden goal by Suphanat Mueanta in the 116th minute.

Thailand 3-1 Philippines

After the match, coach Albert Capellas said: “First of all, I would like to congratulate the Thai team for reaching the final. Second, I am proud of the Philippine players. Against Thailand, the Philippine team fought for 90 minutes until extra time. Of course, we have to come back stronger than before.”

“ Every player fought even though they were tired. I think everyone is proud to see the Filipino players play. I hope the team receives support from the fans and everyone so that we can go further in the future, ” coach Albert Capellas continued.

Coach Albert Capellas and the Philippines team stopped at the semi-finals of the AFF Cup 2024

“In my opinion, the 2024 AFF Cup champion will be the team that plays better and stronger in the final ,” said Albert Capellas when asked about the final match between Vietnam and Thailand.

The 57-year-old strategist expressed regret that the Philippines team could not reach the final. “The Philippines team tried. We had many opportunities but had to go into extra time. It was a pity that we had two golden opportunities but could not take advantage of them. I think the match was quite balanced and there were times when we played better, especially in the first 20 minutes of the match and the first extra time,” coach Albert Capellas shared.

“ I hope the Philippines team will be stronger from now on. We tried to fight until the last minute in every match. We have to learn both about applying pressure and moving the ball faster. The Thai team has more experience than our players,” said coach Albert Capellas.