ALAS Pilipinas head coach Taka Minowa is embracing the challenge of facing Asian powerhouses China and Kazakhstan in the 2026 Asian Games, viewing the tough assignments as an opportunity for the national team to measure its progress.
Minowa said the team has been preparing for the continental competition, although its buildup has been disrupted by bad weather and cancelled practices. Some players are also still working their way back to full fitness.
“We’re prepared naman, but also they have a lot of bad weather, and also cancelling the practice. Still have a time, but it’s not enough time to prepare yet, especially against China and Kazakhstan. We still need the time, and also someone is still recovering,” Minowa told Abante Sports’ Jonas Lavarias.
With limited preparation time remaining, the Japanese coach said Alas Pilipinas is prioritizing the players’ physical condition before making the necessary adjustments for its opening matches against the two formidable opponents.
“We just focus on the condition-wise, and we’ll see how we can go into phase 2 of China and Kazakhstan,” he said.
Rather than feeling added pressure because of the stature of China and Kazakhstan, Minowa said the matchups serve as additional motivation for his players.
“Motivation, of course motivation,” he said.
China, in particular, presents an important challenge for Alas Pilipinas, with Minowa pointing to the possibility of another meeting between the two teams in the future.
“Especially against China, if you see in the World Championship, may chance pa we’re going to face in the World Championship 2029. So, it’s more challenging for us,” he said.
Minowa also sees Kazakhstan as a familiar opponent after Alas Pilipinas defeated the Central Asian side last year.
“In Kazakhstan, I think we’re beating Kazakhstan last year,” he said.
The coach expects another competitive encounter and believes the two matches will be crucial to the Philippines’ bid to advance to the quarterfinals.
“So, it’s going to be a good game, I guess. It’s our challenge in going to the quarterfinal in the Asian Games,” Minowa said.
With Filipino fans expected to rally behind the national team, Minowa emphasized that their support provides additional motivation for Alas Pilipinas.
“We’re doing our best. Para sa bayan, we’re going to fight for the country. Preparation-wise and also our fighting spirit, it came from you guys,” he said. “It’s really important for your support to the national team. Every time, we appreciate.” (Adrian Co)
