Stephan Schrock swears his eleven years playing for the Philippine national football team had been a hell of a ride.
The 36-year-old Filipino-German midfielder capped his 57th and final game for the Azkals late Monday, a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Indonesia at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in the ASEAN Football Federation Mitsubishi Electric Cup.
In his entire stint with the Azkals, Schrock scored six international goals.
Even though he told everyone in attendance during a presser that he had played for the last time wearing the country’s colors, Schrock insists he will not turn his back if called to represent again.
“I hope I can help them. If ever someone has a question, I will reach out every time and I’ll be there for them,” said Schrock, who is also an assistant coach in the Azkals youth teams.
“I just have nothing but respect for everyone who showed up, prepared, motivated, and with passion, and committed.”
In the match against the Garuda, Schrock crossed the ball to Jens Rasmussen for the Azkals’ lone goal of the match in the 82nd minute and was even named the Man of the Match.
Schrock was a vital part of the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup squad in Maldives where the team lost to Palestine, 1-0, for the crown.
He was also part of the squad that qualified for the AFC Asian Cup for the first time in history in 2019 and also became the first Filipino to score in the tournament in the Azkals’ 3-1 loss to Kyrgyzstan in the group stages.
Schrock is thankful for his time with the Azkals and is deeply appreciative of the fans’ all-out support.
“It was an emotional day for me and I’m not gonna lie, I pre-cried already so I’m stable now, so that’s why I just let it sink in everything and I’m just grateful for the last 11 years,” Schröck said.
“I hope some of you enjoyed me also a bit and I’d like to say thank you to everyone who has been part of my journey.”
