“The Philippines was the better team today.” This is what Coach Jang Jung of the Sri Lanka Brave Reds said after their team got a beating from the Philippine Azkals.
Amidst the heavy downpour which started at the early first half of the game, a crowd of Filipino fans, 12,000 people strong, cheered on for their new-found heroes in the field of sports. It was indeed a sweet victory not just for the Azkals but also for the entire country.
The first goal was scored in the 19th minute if the first half after Chieffy Caligdong fashionably eluded two defenders in the box before striking that 1st goal. That goal started the onslaught which was followed by four more goals.
The second score that the Fil-British striker Phil Younghusband got after finding himself suddenly unmarked in the box and hit the goal, was signaled a foul at first by the referee. Good thing the lead referee consulted the linesman and later on let the goal to stand. Lucky Phil might have gotten that luck from the presence of
Angel Locsin who was in the dug out later after the game. (some guys just get it all, right?)
Angel amongst the crowd
The Philippine Azkals must make the best out of this win against Sri Lanka. They must not let this get into their heads and know that there are tougher games ahead specially that now they will be preparing for the second-round two-leg tie against Kuwait. The first leg will be played in Kuwait on July 23 and the second in Manila on July 28. Kuwait is no Sri Lanka team. They can’t be considered a push-over. Overconfidence must not get into the Azkals because it could bring them down.
Azkals coach Michael Weiss though knows what his team will be up to and what they have to prepare for.
"So we have to change our tactics, but nevertheless, if we stand compact we will have a chance. The first match will be played under incredible hot weather and we have to play smart and not waste our energy against an opponent who moves the ball very fast and technically superior.
"We have to analyze them carefully. I have all their tapes and I am looking forward to the challenge."