Jakarta: Philippines’ striker Patrick Reichelt believes the Azkals’ newfound doggedness and resilience have worked wonders as the side booked their place in the semifinals of the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup, after missing out on the knockout phase two years ago. 

Playing all four matches in the group stage, Reichelt, who opened the Azkals’ account with a vital goal against Singapore on Matchday One, said they have a rejuvenated squad that has played with “a lot of heart” in the competition. 

The Azkals went unbeaten in Group B, winning two matches and drawing two, including the goalless stalemate with Indonesia at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium here last Sunday. As a result, they finished second to Thailand in the group, which meant the Azkals will face Vietnam in the semifinals starting Sunday at Panaad Stadium in Bacolod City. 

"I think this time we’ve played with a lot of heart,” Reichelt said. "Everybody is fighting for the next guy. There’s a lot of communication on the pitch and positive screaming and encouragement, I feel this year we have a good group.” 

It will mark the third appearance for Reichelt in the semifinals, having been part of the team in 2012 and 2014. The German-born striker expressed confidence he can make a bigger impact this time, saying that he’s fitness is no longer a concern, after struggling with injuries in the past couple of years. 

"Three times now, I’ve been in the semifinals, but I feel this is my best Suzuki Cup so far,” said Reichelt. "I feel very fit even on top. It was very unfortunate for Phil (Younghusband) to leave the match (due to a cut), but I hope he gets better because everything is working very well for us." 

Reichelt is anticipating a challenging semifinal duel with Vietnam, which has yet to concede a goal in the tournament.

"I saw the Malaysia match (which Vietnam won),” said Reichelt. “I see they sit deep and wait for opportunities for spaces. We have to definitely talk because the coaches we’ll have to prepare very well for this one. They didn’t concede one goal and our goal is to definitely score and give them a hard time."