Football: Patrick Reichelt signs off from PH national team

Philippines striker Patrick Reichelt celebrates after scoring against Indonesia in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match in Manila on November 21, 2023. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA -- Filipino-German forward Patrick Reichelt has announced his retirement from international football, a day after the Philippines secured qualification to the semifinals of the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup.

In an emotional post on his social media accounts, the 36-year-old said he is leaving the Philippines' camp on Sunday, with the support of the team's management and coaching staff.

"My wife and I are expecting our first child in just a few days, and it’s time for me to fly home and give my undivided attention to our growing family. As this beautiful new chapter begins in our lives, another comes to an end," Reichelt explained.

"Yesterday’s game marked my last match wearing the Philippines football jersey. This decision was never going to be easy, but I always knew the day would come. For nearly 13 years, this team has been my family. I owe so much of my life to this experience," he added.

READ: PH Football Team make first ASEAN Cup semis appearance since 2018

Reichelt made his debut for the Philippines in September 2012, and was part of the national team that gained the country's first-ever ticket to the AFC Asian Cup in 2019.

He finishes his international career with 16 goals in 93 caps.

Reichelt called his time with the Philippine national team as the "greatest honor of my professional career," and expressed his hope that he had inspired not just fans but the players as well.

His retirement post was met with an outpouring of gratitude and congratulations from fellow players, including longtime Philippines goal-keeper Neil Etheridge who called Reichelt "a friend, a brother, a legend."

Up-and-coming Philippines star Sandro Reyes also paid tribute, saying: "Thank you for everything... What a father you will be."

The Philippine men's team, meanwhile, returns to action on Friday, September 27, for the first leg of their semifinal against powerhouse Thailand at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.