The Philippine Football Federation will host the Copa Paulino Alcantara on November 7, 2021, in place of the cancelled 2021 PFL season. Named after a football legend, the cup aims to revitalize domestic football amidst the pandemic and will feature a group and knockout stage format under strict health protocols. The tournament runs from November 7 to November 19, 2021.
The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) is set to launch the Copa Paulino Alcantara on November 7, 2021, as a national cup competition to replace the cancelled 2021 Philippines Football League (PFL) season. Named after the legendary Filipino football player, Paulino Alcantara, who was recently inducted into the Philippine Sports Hall of Fame, the cup aims to invigorate the domestic football scene, which has experienced disruptions due to the pandemic. PFL Commissioner Coco Torre communicated the decision regarding the cancellation of the league season during an online meeting on October 18, 2021, informing clubs that the Copa would be the sole club tournament for the year. Despite the cancellation of the league, the PFF is hopeful that the PFL will resume in the first quarter of 2022. PFF President Mariano Araneta, Jr. expressed disappointment about the league’s deferment but emphasized the commitment to providing an intense and competitive football environment through the Copa. The tournament will consist of a group stage followed by knockout rounds, featuring six participating clubs divided into two groups. Matches will be conducted under strict health protocols within a closed-circuit biomedical bubble, adhering to national guidelines. Additionally, the Copa is expected to offer a competitive outlet for clubs while supporting player welfare amid ongoing challenges. The PFF is also exploring television partnerships to broadcast the matches nationally, aiming to further engage fans and promote the sport. The tournament is scheduled to run from November 7 to November 19, 2021, with fixtures taking place every two days at the PFF National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite.
The Copa Paulino Alcantara represents a significant shift in Philippine football, stemming from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic which led to the cancellation of the 2021 Philippines Football League season. By establishing this cup, the PFF expresses its commitment to maintaining competitive football in the country. The tournament is designed not only to uphold the sport’s visibility but also to ensure that players remain active and engaged during these uncertain times. Furthermore, it serves as a preparatory platform for the national team ahead of the AFF Suzuki Cup 2020.
The Copa Paulino Alcantara is an essential initiative by the Philippine Football Federation to sustain football engagement during the pandemic. Through this competition, the PFF aims to provide a structured environment for clubs and players, reinvigorate interest in the sport, and pave the way for the resumption of the Philippines Football League next year. Ultimately, the Copa serves as a testament to the resilience of Philippine football and its commitment to its stakeholders.
Original Source: www.aseanfootball.org
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