Philippine Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT) head coach Albert Capellas had some words to say to a member of the Thailand coaching staff after their tense semis conclusion in Bangkok.
Philippine Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT) head coach Albert Capellas was caught in a verbal altercation with a member of the Thailand coaching staff shortly after the PMNFT lost to the Thais, 4-3, in the semifinals of the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup Monday night.
In a video uploaded by Malaysian media, Capellas was seen pointing and shouting at a member of the Thai coaching staff as the Filipino booters were headed to their bus from the Bangkok stadium.
“I hope they fire you soon, you cannot stay in this business,” the Spaniard was heard saying.
According to the team’s Media Officer Jing Jamlang, a member of the Thailand team’s coaching staff said some comments that didn’t sit well with Capellas, which escalated the manager’s feelings after the tough loss.
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“There was one member of their coaching staff that had some unsportsmanlike things to say as we were entering the bus. Prompted a response. Emotions were still high at the time,” said Jamlang.
“Nothing serious happened. Their manager apologized to us after,” he added.
The alleged remarks from the Thai staff member weren't caught on the video, but Capellas also responded with a warning.
“We will come back,” he said, as the Thais eliminated the Philippines on aggregate after a last-minute goal.
Regardless, it was a tightly-contested affair especially in Leg 2, where the game went to extra time. The Thais also had a contentious goal awarded before the first half, where the ball appeared to have been out of bounds before the goal.
The shot was upheld and eventually proved the difference with the series decided on one goal.
Thailand is headed to its 11th final in the competition. The two-time defending champions face Vietnam in the finale beginning on January 2.