As the Philippine Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT) prepares for its most critical fixture of the year, a new but seasoned face is set to bolster the squad.
Raphael Obermair, the versatile Filipino-German winger currently starring for Paderborn 07 in the 2. Bundesliga, has officially joined the team ahead of the do-or-die clash against Tajikistan on March 31.
The final qualifying match for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup carries immense weight; only a win will secure the Philippines’ spot in the prestigious continental tournament.
Philippine Football Federation (PFF) President John Anthony Gutierrez welcomed Obermair’s arrival to PMNFT, saying:
The addition of a player with Raphael Obermair’s elite experience in the 2. Bundesliga is a significant milestone that underscores our commitment to elevating the Philippine Men’s National Team to new heights. His arrival ahead of such a critical match against Tajikistan provides the squad with invaluable tactical depth and leadership as we fight to secure our place in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Through the German tiers
For Obermair, the timing of his debut could not be more significant.
Born in Prien am Chiemsee, Bavaria, Obermair’s path to the upper echelons of German football was paved with persistence. From his early days at TSV 1860 Rosenheim to a stint with Bayern Munich II, his career has been a masterclass in resilience.
After spells in the Austrian Bundesliga with Sturm Graz and the German 3. Liga with Carl Zeiss Jena and Magdeburg—where he won the 2021-22 title—he has established himself as a consistent performer in the highly competitive 2. Bundesliga.
“It has been a long way to get to the 2. Bundesliga,” Obermair shared in an exclusive interview with PFF. “Starting in a small fifth division club… you always have to believe in yourself. Even during times when things are not going as planned, you need to stay confident.”
Filipino conviction
Despite being raised in Germany, Obermair remains deeply connected to his roots through his Filipino mother. He credits his upbringing for the temperament he brings to the professional pitch.
“From a very young age, I was taught that gratitude and humility are very important,” he said.
Representing the Philippines makes me very proud and shows me the privilege I have.
While Obermair had received previous PMNFT call-ups, notably in 2021 for World Cup Qualifiers and the AFF Championship, club commitments and timing prevented his arrival. Now, with his conviction growing “stronger and stronger,” he is ready to don the national colors.
German efficiency
Known for his high work rate and attacking contributions, Obermair brings a level of German efficiency and tactical acumen that will be vital against a physical Tajikistan side.
In over 300 professional appearances, Obermair has proven his ability to create and finish chances, recording 28 career goals to date.
“I want to lead the way on the field with my experience and the quality I have,” Obermair noted.
Together with the whole team, we can compete against Tajikistan and get the important win.
With PMNFT entering the final hours of preparation in Turkey heading to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Obermair remains focused. Despite admitting to being “a little more tense than usual” for what he describes as a “do-or-die” game, he relies on his professional routines to stay sharp.
For the young aspiring footballers in the Philippines watching his debut, his advice is simple: “Train consistently; it will make you better. Try to figure out your strengths and make them even better. Never stop dreaming.”
PMNFT takes on Tajikistan tomorrow, March 31, with the eyes of the nation on a squad now bolstered by German-born quality and a deep-seated pride in the Filipino flag. PFF invites Filipino football fans in Tajikistan to support PMNFT at Hisor Central Stadium at 7 PM (10 PM, Philippine time).
