The Philippines Football League (PFL) is set to start its 2022 season with the Copa Paulino Alcantara on March 14 in Cavite, featuring seven clubs, compared to five in 2021. The tournament will consist of 21 matches in a single-round robin format, culminating in semifinals and finals. This event aims to rejuvenate the football scene in the Philippines while adhering to health protocols during preparations.
The Philippines Football League (PFL) is poised to commence its 2022 season with the kickoff of the Copa Paulino Alcantara scheduled for March 14 at the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) National Training Centre in Carmona, Cavite. In contrast to the previous year’s Copa, which featured five teams, this season will see the participation of seven teams: Dynamic Herb Cebu, Mendiola FC 1991, Stallion Laguna FC, Maharlika Manila FC, United City FC, Azkals Development Team, and the reigning champions, Kaya FC-Iloilo. The tournament is anticipated to continue until May, preceding the formal commencement of the league’s competitions. The PFF President, Nonong Araneta, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming season, noting, “Football fans have long been starved of a lengthy football season, and it is high time that we have a proper league season, which will create rivalries and storylines among the participating clubs.” The Copa Paulino Alcantara will employ a single-round robin format, culminating in a total of 21 matches. From these matches, the top four teams will advance to the semifinal round, while the remaining teams will compete for third place. The finals will showcase the winners of the semifinal matches. Participating clubs have already begun their preparation for the tournament, adhering to health and safety protocols established in conjunction with their local government units. PFL Commissioner Coco Torre emphasized the importance of adequate preparation for the clubs: “It is important for our participating clubs to gain enough preparation for the upcoming league and cup competitions.” He further expressed optimism for the cup, indicating it would rejuvenate the domestic football landscape and facilitate home matches in respective venues. With the Copa Paulino Alcantara set to commence soon, the PFL is poised for a revitalized season of competitive football.
The Philippines Football League (PFL) is the premier football league in the Philippines, engaged in promoting and developing football in the country. The Copa Paulino Alcantara serves as a significant tournament within the league’s framework, named after the esteemed Filipino football player Paulino Alcantara. The tournament is crucial for clubs to regain their competitive edge following disruptions caused by the pandemic. This year’s Copa is set to expand participation, fostering a more vibrant and engaging football environment in the Philippines, which has been longing for a more extended league season.
The opening of the 2022 season of the PFL with the Copa Paulino Alcantara signifies a revitalizing moment for Filipino football, reflecting increased participation and a structured format that aims to enhance competition among the clubs. The efforts from the PFF and PFL illustrate a commitment to fostering local talent and enhancing fan engagement. As the clubs prepare for the tournament, there exists optimistic anticipation for the upcoming league season, promising an exciting array of matches and narratives in the Philippine football landscape.
Original Source: www.gmanetwork.com
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