Niko De Vera: It's a blessing to be called up to the Azkals

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Niko De Vera reaffirms duty for the Philippine Azkals. Photo: Niko De Vera

The 24-year-old defender has been called up once again to represent the Philippines National Team in the upcoming training camp in Doha that will take place in preparation for the 2022 World Cup Qualifiers running from June 3-15.


The Azkals will train in Doha and will have two international friendly matches against Palestine and Syria. Following the friendlies, Azkals head coach Scott Cooper will select the final  roster that will play against Guam on June 3, followed by China on June 9, and Maldives on June 15.

Reacting to the news, De Vera described the call up as a "blessing"

"It’s a blessing to be called up to the Azkals. I am ready to give it my all and help the team any way I can to get the wins we need," said De Vera who traces his family's roots back to Cebu City.

For De Vera, he's out to fill whatever role he'll be given. And aims to absorb all he can in the training camp.

"I think I can bring a lot to the team but also be a student of the game," said the 31st overall draftee in the 2018 MLS SuperDraft. "I am not expecting to play any minutes but I am just focused on coming in only trying to work my hardest and help push the players so that we are all at the top of our game to get the results we want," he added.

De Vera  was scouted at the age of 15 and played for Portland Timbers Youth Academy. Photo: Portland Timbers

De Vera, whose burgeoning football skills were first displayed at the Portland Timbers Youth Academy, is now taking his talents to the Philippines and will join the Azkals Development Team (ADT) in the Philippines Football League next season. "Joining ADT is going to be a big transition. New country and new training environment," said De Vera

He hopes that his stint with the ADT will help him grow his game and earn him a spot in the national team in the future. "My goals are to use the development system to grow as a player and earn more call ups for the senior team and hopefully become a leader."







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