Albert Capellas, who led the Philippines to the semifinals of the 2024 ASEAN Championships, has stepped down as head coach of the men’s national football team just days before a crucial Asian Cup qualifier.
MANILA – Albert Capellas, the coach who led the Philippines to a stirring run to the 2024 ASEAN Championship semifinals, has resigned as head coach of the men’s national football team, the Philippine Football Federation confirmed late Saturday.
The timing of Capellas’ departure is significant, coming just over a week before the Azkals are set to face Tajikistan in a vital AFC Asian Cup qualifying match at New Clark City Stadium on June 10.
“Personal reasons have led to Albert’s departure. Out of great respect for him, we will not elaborate,” team manager Freddy Gonzales said in a statement to the media.
Capellas’ stint with the national team lasted only eight months, but he made a notable impact. Under his leadership, the Azkals returned to the ASEAN Championship semifinals, highlighted by a thrilling 2-1 victory over Thailand in the home leg before bowing out in the away fixture in Bangkok.
In his final match in charge, Capellas guided the Philippines to an emphatic 4-1 win over the Maldives in Asian Cup qualifying last March.
The Azkals now face the challenge of regrouping under new leadership as they prepare for their crucial upcoming fixture.