AFC Challenge Cup 2012: Philippines Coach Weiss Wants To Come Early To Acclimatize With The Weather

Philippines National Football will come Nepal a week earlier than scheduled date to take part in AFC Challenge Cup football Tournament. The Philippines FA President Nonong Araneta said that they had decided to go Kathmandu a week before the kick off - on 2nd of March.

“It’s a high altitude city so they have to be there early to acclimatize,” Araneta told The STAR yesterday.

Kathmandu has an elevation of about 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level, with an average temperature of 7.5 to 24.3 degrees Celcius during the month of March.

“I requested to go early, five or six days ahead of original schedule, to get used to the high altitude,” Azkals coach Michael Weiss said.

The Azkals will kick off the campaign taking on North Korea at the Halchowk Stadium on 9th of March.

After North Korea, the Azkals will take on 2008 champion India on March 11 at Dashrath Stadium, and then 2006 titlist Tajikistan on March 13 at Halchowk Stadium.

The Azkals are playing their last friendly match against Malaysia on 29th March in Manila before the journey to Nepal.

Meanwhile, India National team is landing in Kathmandu on 4th of march after wrapping up gulf tour. 

 As the Count down for the most exciting football game is about to begin, Stay with me to get the exclusive updates of upcoming AFC Challenge Cup 2012.