The Philippine Azkals in preparation for the upcoming Suzuki Cup 2012 were scheduled to faced some of the toughest football nations in Asia. The June International Friendly Matches were part of the FIFA international calendar meaning the outcome of the three games scheduled of the Azkals will affects their current standings which is now at it’s highest level.

Currently the Philippines is ranked at the 148th in the world, they have overtaken, Malaysia (153) and Indonesia (151) ranking third in South East Asia with only Vietnam (97) and Thailand (141) ahead of them.

The Philippine Azkals will welcome the returned of some of the most prominent European footballers back to the line-up spearheaded by German midfielder Stephan Schrock, but the team will miss out Fulham goalkeeper Neil Etheridge for the Malaysian Friendly because of suspension.

Other notables who will joined the regular Azkals were  Manny Ott, Denis Wolf, Jason De Jong and German goalkeeper Roland Muller. Some Azkals mainstays on the other hand will have problems on their schedules also, Phil and James Younghusband may not be able to play for the Philippine Azkals.

Meanwhile here’s the complete Schedule of Games of the Philippine Azkals for the June International Friendly:

• Philippine Azkals vs. Malaysia – June 01, 2012 – 8:45 PM – Stadium Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
• Philippine Azkals vs. Indonesia – June 05, 2012 – 7:00 PM – Rizal Memorial Stadium – Manila, Philippines
• Philippine Azkals vs. Guam – June 12, 2012 – 8:00 PM – Panaad Stadium – Bacolod City, Philippines

Philppine Azkals: Philippine National Football Team