Patrick Deyto retires from Philippine football team

Philippine men’s football team goal keeper Patrick Deyto during a game in the Asean Hyundai Cup. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines–The Philippine men’s football team’s loss to Malaysia to close out its campaign in the Asean Hyundai Cup was also the last international match for veteran goalkeeper Patrick Deyto.

Deyto confirmed his retirement from national team duties after seeing action in the Philippines’ 1-0 defeat last Saturday in Kuala Lumpur.

Coach Carles Cuadrat gave the current Kaya-Iloilo keeper and former Thai League mainstay the start, knowing that it would be his last.

“From game-winning saves to guiding the backline with veteran leadership, Pat has been a pillar of strength on the pitch. Thank you for the sacrifice, the passion, and every moment you fought for the flag,” the team said on its social media post paying tribute to Deyto.

Facing Malaysia to end his career representing the country turned out to be a full-circle moment for Deyto after making his Philippine debut in 2014 when the team, then called the Azkals, held Malaysia to a scoreless draw in a friendly in Kuala Lumpur.

It began a busy international year for Deyto, pulling off a late save that prevented Malaysian striker Safee Sali from scoring a winning penalty to preserve a similar goalless tie in another friendly, this time in Cebu City.

Deyto finished the year as the first-choice keeper for the Philippines during its run to the semifinals of the 2014 Asean Championship.

All in all, the 36-year-old Deyto had 24 caps for the Philippines.