Philippines — Football

Football in Philippines has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by the success of the national team, the Azkals. The PFL features 10 clubs across 1 competitions.

While basketball remains the dominant sport, Football has gained a growing fanbase in Philippines, particularly following the Azkals' improved results in AFC competition. The Philippine Football League, launched in 2017, represents a milestone in the professionalisation of the domestic game.

Football in the Philippines has a long but sporadic history. The federation was founded in 1907, making it one of the oldest in Asia. However, basketball and boxing became the dominant sports, and football development stalled for decades.

The Azkals' rise from the 2010s onwards, fuelled partly by Filipino-heritage players from Europe, reinvigorated interest in the sport. Qualification for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup was a landmark achievement.

The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) governs football in the country. Founded in 1907, it is a member of the Asian Football Confederation and FIFA.

The Philippine Football League (PFL), launched in 2017, is the top professional division. The Copa Paulino Alcantara serves as the national cup competition. The league is still in its early stages of development but represents an important step for Filipino football.

Kaya FC-Iloilo and United City FC are among the most prominent clubs in the Philippine Football League. Ceres-Negros (now United City) dominated the early years of the PFL and represented the Philippines in AFC competition.

The Philippines' qualification for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup was a historic achievement, their first appearance at the continental championship. The Azkals brand has helped popularise football in a basketball-dominated sporting culture.