Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Manchester City's Carlos Tevez has one foot in Corinthians, says president

Corinthians president Andres Sanchez has affirmed that Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez is on the verge of rejoining the Brazilian giants, stating that the player's new transfer value must reflect the controversies that have beset the Argentine in the last two months.

The Timao have been long-term admirers of their former player, and attempted to sign him in the summer transfer window before being scared off by the transfer tag put on his shoulders in England.

Melvin Jones field eyed for football tourney

A DECENT football pitch would be impossible to put up in time for the Vergara–Domogan Street Kids Football Cup slated November.

But the City Government assured players to the month-long tournament that a more acceptable playing field come by November 27 will be up in the works.

“The City Government is currently undertaking a feasibility study on how we can improve Melvin Jones to serve its purpose as a decent football ground,” said Mayor Mauricio Domogan.

Representative Bernardo Vergara, for his part, said the current improvement being done at Burnham Park will also spill over to Melvin Jones.

More work needed for PH football

by Mars G. Alison

German football expert Eckhard Krautzun said he was amazed as almost 50 coaches including women showed up for yesterday’s start of the three-day workshop hosted by the Cebu Football Association (CFA) at the Sarrosa International Hotel and Residential Suites and the Aboitiz Sportsfield in Subangdaku Mandaue.
He said he was more impressed because it was the first time that he handled a workshop with so many female participants.
“The girls did very well,” said Krautzun referring to an exercise wherein he made selected coaches come up with their own training program.
The coaches’ response to the workshop also pleased the German football coach.
“I find them eager to go and they are concentrated,” Krautzun said.
He said that he emphasized on drills and tactics yesterday.
TACTICAL DEFICIENCY
Based on his observation since he arrived in Manila last week, there’s a tactical deficiency in Philippine football.
Prior to coming here, Krautzun had also conducted a workshop for the National Capital Region Football Association (FA) and nearby FAs as well as observed four matches of the United Football League (UFL), the country’s premier football league.
According to Krautzun, the Filipino booters have good skills, they can run but they lack in ground, individual and team tactics. He said they should work on their tactical behavior such as balance in defense and attack on the field. he also noted the slow switch from one position to another.
“The best teams in the world switch quickly. I noticed that there (NCR) and it is also lacking here,” Krautzun said.
He also said that the Filipino will have to develop their own style of play which should adapt the Filipino culture, climate and body structure.
USE INNATE AGILITY
During the games in Manila, Krautzun observed that many of the booters attempt long-range shots. He said this will not work against tall players especially against the Koreans.
‘They have to use their agility, their quick-passing,” said Krautzun, who added that because of the heat here, players should economize their energy and not waste it by running and running.
In the morning, Krautzun lectured the coaches on the profile of a grassroots coach and the coach of conduct. In the afternoon, they were made to do practical exercises.
He said that the young players are the future and that they should get proper coaching.
“The Philippines have to find an ideal system wherein the youth will be given regular training and regular competition,” Krautzun said.
The workshop will continue today with discussion on talent identification.
Krautzun will also observe the progress of the Little Azkals (Philippine U13 team) who are in town for the workshop. Source
Complete stories on our Digital Edition newsstand for tablets, netbooks and mobile phones; 14-issue free trial. About to step out? Get breaking alerts on your mobile.phone. Text ON INQ BREAKING to 4467, for Globe, Smart and Sun subscribers in the Philippines.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Police receives complaint over Chelsea captain John Terry's alleged racist abuse towards QPR's Anton Ferdinand

The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they have received a complaint from a member of the public over alleged racist abuse by Chelsea and England captain John Terry.

Officers are now assessing the situation relating to allegations Terry racially abused Anton Ferdinand in the Premier League match between QPR and Chelsea at Loftus Road on Sunday.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: “We can confirm police have been notified of an incident on Sunday, October 23 involving alleged racial abuse. This is currently being assessed by officers from Hammersmith and Fulham.”

It comes amid reports that Ferdinand is giving serious consideration to making a formal complaint against Terry. Ferdinand, brother of England vice-captain Rio, will meet with QPR manager Neil Warnock and an advisor at the club's Harlington training ground on Tuesday lunchtime before making a decision.

Terry, who categorically denies the claims and has the full backing of Chelsea, has vowed to clear his name, telling the Daily Mail, “I will do whatever it takes to clear my name and I don’t have anything to hide. I’m not taking that level of abuse.

“Anton and I spoke for 10 minutes in the dressing room after the game and there is no issue between us. It’s finished.”

The complaint to the police revolves around an incident late in QPR's 1-0 victory over their west London rivals. Videos circulated on the internet on Sunday night which showed Terry appearing to mouth the words “you f****** black c***” towards Ferdinand.

Terry does not deny using the words, but he insists they were taken out of context as part of a longer sentence because he thought Ferdinand had accused him of making a racist remark.

Terry, 30, put out a statement on Sunday stating he had spoken to Ferdinand after the match and “there was no problem” between the pair. However, Ferdinand is yet to make a public response to Terry's version of events.

In his statement, Terry said, "I am disappointed that people have leaped to the wrong conclusions about the context of what I was seen to be saying to Anton Ferdinand. I thought Anton was accusing me of using a racist slur against him. I responded aggressively, saying that I never used that term."

“I would never say such a thing, and I am saddened that people would think so. I have known Anton for a long time and spoke to him about it after the game and there was no problem between us.

"I congratulated him on their win. He has not accused me of any wrongful remark."

Terry pointed to the fact he is the leader of a team that is very diverse.

"It was clear it was all a misunderstanding at the time. After the result, I am saddened to be dealing with these wrongful allegations. I am the proud captain of one of the most internationally diverse teams in the Premier League and I absolutely believe that there is no place for racism in sport and indeed in any walk of life." Source

Beckham's Galaxy to play vs Azkals in Manila: Bright


MANILA, Philippines - British football superstar David Beckham and the Los Angeles Galaxy will visit Manila for a friendly match against the Philippine Azkals on December 4.Azkals team coordinator Ace Bright made the announcement on his Twitter account on Saturday night.
"LA Galaxy and Azkals, dec 4 rizal stadium :)," Bright wrote.
Bright's announcement immediately sparked reactions from fans and Azkals team members.
"Is it really true?! Becks in Manila?" tweeted Azkals player Simon Greatwich.
"I'll tell you now, this doesn't happen often so better take your chance on Dec 4th. Some things happen once in a lifetime," said Azkals fan Jaron Genota.
"What a difference 12 months makes. Dec 5th 2010 Philippines 2 Vietnam 0. Dec 4th 2011 David Beckham and LA Galaxy arrive to play in Manila," said former Azkals coach Simon McMenemy.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Fabregas 'comes home' to Barcelona

BARCELONA, Spain - Spain midfield star Cesc Fabregas Monday completed his marathon move from Arsenal to Barcelona by signing a five-year contract that brought him "back home" to his boyhood club after eight years.
"Cesc has finally joined FC Barcelona, after signing a contract for the next five seasons. His buyout clause will be 200 million euros," the club said in a statement.
Barcelona deputy chairman Josep Maria Bartomeu said the fee was 29 million euros.
"In addition, if we win the league twice and the Champions league once in the next five seasons Arsenal will receive a bonus of five million euros, two (million) for each league win and one for the Champions League," he told a news conference alongside Fabregas.
"Furthermore, over the next five years ... the club will pay one million euros to Arsenal on behalf of Cesc," who is taking a massive salary cut to come to Spain, he said.
Fabregas, wearing the number 4 shirt, earlier appeared before some 35,000 cheering supporters at the Camp Nou stadium after passing a medical and signing the deal.

Monday, August 15, 2011

PFF - Smart Club Championship 2011 Semi Finals

PFF - Smart Club Championship Semi Finals

August 16 (Tuesday)
San Beda FC(Rizal) vs Stallion FC(Iloilo)

August 17 (Wednesday)
Pachanga FC(NCR) vs Teknika FC(NCR)

at University of Makati

Saturday, July 16, 2011

UFL seeks to add 20 new clubs for 2012 season

The United Football League (UFL) will expand by up to 20 clubs and has already sent out a call for new teams in the coming 2012 season.

UFL media officer Coco Torres said deadline for interested football clubs to seek a slot is on August 12 since they are going to add up to 10 teams in each of the two divisions.

Torres said aspirants must email their roster of 25 players and applicants must also send in details like club name, history, owners and area.

The UFL has an official Facebook page and a website.

Most of the members of the men's national football team compete in the UFL as players of their home clubs. The league now has 16 clubs, including the Kaya Futbol Club, Global Smartmatic, Air Force Rider, and Army Fritz Macziol IBM which have Azkals in their respective line-ups.

Friday, July 15, 2011

Azkals off to Bahrain Friday

by Cedelf P. Tupas
Photo by Fritz Dalida

MANILA — The Philippine Azkals leave for Manama, Bahrain, today for the final phase of their preparations for the second round World Cup qualifying duel against Kuwait on July 23.

Teen Azkals make 2 goals though winless at AFF U16 in Laos

by Earl Victor Rosero
The Under-16 national football team managed to score two goals in separate games though they were unable to win a match in the ASEAN Football Federation U16 Championships in Vientiane, Laos.

The Teen Azkals' first goal came from Ryu Nell Fegidero in the 11th minute of the game against Cambodia last July 8. Fegidero, who hails from Bacolod, also got a red card in the 90th minute of that match.

According to the AFF account of the game, Cambodia scored in the 7th minute but the Teen Azkals “were not affected by the early strike and launched right back into attack mode. Their efforts paid off within four minutes when Fegidero scambled in a close range shot."

Filipinos in Kuwait catch Azkals fever

KUWAIT – Fans of the Philippine Azkals in Kuwait are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Philippines new sports heroes.
The Azkals, who already left the Philippines for their acclimatization in Bahrain, are scheduled to play against the Kuwait Al-Azraq in Hawalli on July 23.
Filipinos based in Kuwait have also caught the Azkals fever and are now busy printing Azkals t-shirts, badges and banners which will be used in their away game in Kuwait.
“Ginawa namin ito pang-suporta lang actually sa team Azkals. Proud nga tayo dahil makakarating ang Philippine team dito. Kaming grupo gumawa kami ng paraan para suportahan [sila],” said Azkals fan Nelson Lacson.
“Kaya dito, go, go kami sa Azkals. Support the Azkals,” said another Azkals fan, Romano Roman.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Beckham says playing for Mourinho would be ‘dream’

LOS ANGELES (AP)—David Beckham says playing for Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho would be a “dream.”
Mourinho is the reigning FIFA Coach of the Year, having guided Madrid to a runner-up finish in the Spanish league and a Copa del Rey title over Barcelona.
Beckham, who spent four years with Madrid, will take the field opposite Mourinho to play his former team for the first time since leaving. He will guide the Los Angeles Galaxy against the Spanish heavyweights in an exhibition on Saturday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Beckham was with Madrid from 2003-07, helping the club win its last La Liga title in his final season before joining the Galaxy. Source

Azkals deny ‘rape’ allegations

by Cedelf P. Tupas

MANILA—The manager of the Philippine football team yesterday shrugged off allegations that four members of the squad are involved in a “rape” case even as the Azkals stepped up their preparations for their second round World Cup qualifying clash against Kuwait.
“These are serious allegations that are being plastered on the internet,” said team manager Dan Palami. “If these were true, this will not be tolerated.
The players – Neil Etheridge, Anton del Rosario, Jason Sabio and Simon Greatwich – have been accused of raping a woman in Manila more than a month ago by a certain Paul Weiler, a German, who described himself as a consultant of the Philippine Football Federation.
Details of the incident have remained sketchy and no case has been filed against the players.
Palami admitted that the controversy is getting in the way of the preparations of the team, which advanced to the second round of the World Cup qualifying for the first time after winning over Sri Lanka last week.

Faint hopes for two key Azkals stars

by Cedelf P. Tupas

MANILA—The Asian Football Confederation has directed the Philippine Football Federation to elevate its appeal on the suspension of Borromeo and Schrock to the International Football Federation Disciplinary Committee.
Borromeo, a rock on defense, and Schrock, the dynamic attacking midfielder, picked up two yellow cards in the first round tie against Sri Lanka, which the Azkals eliminated, 5-1, on aggregate.
“It’s a sign of hope,” PFF president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta said of the AFC’s move.

AFC to PFF: Appeal Borromeo, Schrock suspension to FIFA

by Earl Victor Rosero
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has advised the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) to elevate the case of men's national football team captain Aly Borromeo and Filipino-German midfielder Stephan Schrock to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee.

PFF General Secretary Ramon Manuel said, in a text message to GMA News Online, the AFC used a provision of the FIFA Disciplinary Code as basis for its recommendation.

Article 17, Section 3 of the code states the FIFA Disciplinary Committee "may exceptionally depart from or amend" the one-game suspension rule after two yellow cards. But the decision must be made before the start of a particular competition."

Monday, July 11, 2011

Colombia first to reach Copa America quarters

SANTA FE, Argentina (AP)—Radamel Falcao scored twice and Colombia defeated Bolivia 2-0 on Sunday to become the first team to advance to the quarterfinals of the Copa America.
Colombia’s victory also guarantees Peru, Chile and Venezuela, all of which have four points after two matches, advance to the knockout stage.
Tournament favorites Argentina and Brazil have only two points in two matches and will advance if they win their final group matches.
Argentina faces Costa Rica on Monday and Brazil plays Ecuador on Wednesday.
Porto star Falcao scored in the 15th and 29th minutes for Colombia to secure top spot in Group A with seven points. Bolivia finished with only one point and was eliminated.
Colombia will face the best third-place team in the quarterfinals. The top two teams in each group reach the quarterfinals, joined by the best two third-place teams.

AFF U16: Philippines 0-5 Singapore

VIENTIANE (10 July 2011) – Singapore scored a second stunning victory today to install themselves as one of the favourites in the ongoing AFF Under-16 Championship here. They followed up their sensational 5-0 defeat of Vietnam two days ago with a smashing 5-0 win over the Philippines at the National Sports Complex tonight.
With tonight’s win, the Singaporeans, physically advantaged and certainly not short of skill, are in a stronger position at the top of Group B. They now have six points, two clear of Cambodia who forced a draw with Myanmar in an earlier match today. Two days ago, Singapore whipped Vietnam 5-0 which means they have now scored 10 goals in just two games.
“The more important factor is that the players play to their ability,” said Dejan Gluscevic, the chief coach of Singapore.

International football in Mindanao plausible

Manila, JULY 8 (Sugod.com) – In a report by sports commentator Ronnie Nathanielsz, he mentioned that Mindanao achieved a staggering double digit TV ratings during the Sri Lanka vs. Philippines 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
An impressive feat of 11.25 percent audience share for the land of promise can be a great criterion for any future decision with regards to holding international football events in the island of Mindanao.
For those who witnessed, Visayas and Luzon have successfully hosted a number of international football events while Mindanao still has yet t0 tasted the flavor of some quality international football matches.
Davao, Cagayan de Oro and Lanao del Sur are good locations for any future Azkals international friendly matches. However, federation officials have to face huge problems like pitch, stadium capacity, and security.

De Jong arrives in Manila, rejoins Azkals

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino-Dutch midfielder Jason de Jong arrived in Manila on Saturday to rejoin the Philippine Azkals for their World Cup qualifier against Kuwait.
De Jong, who played for the national team in the 2010 ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup, arrived from Belgium via Hong Kong.
“I think we have a good chance [against Kuwait] because I saw the game last time, especially the game in Rizal,” he said.
He will join Filipino-Danish Jerry Lucena, Filipino-German John Patrick Hinrichsen, and Filipino- Icelandic Ray Jonsson in beefing up the Azkals in the absence of team captain Aly Borromeo and midfielder Stephan Schrock.
Borromeo and Schrock were suspended for 1 game after getting 2 yellow cards each in the first-round tie against Sri Lanka.

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Information for the FANS for the July 28 WC Qualifiers Round 2 2nd Leg in Rizal (Tickets and Game Info)

by PHL Azkals (Philippine National Football Team)

Tickets will be available online and through the branches of TICKETWORLD starting JULY 16 10AM.  No reservations before July 16.
Online Link:  www.ticketworld.com.ph 
Direct Link to the ticket:  
Twitter account:  http://twitter.com/#!/ticketworldinc
Facebook Account:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/TicketWorld-Manila/119993718066555
Landline:  (02) - 8919999

Ticket prices, number of tickets and seating location:
tickets will be sold at PhP200.00 (bleachers area behind the two goals)
tickets will be sold at PhP300.00 (near the middle of the non-covered bleachers area)
tickets will be sold at PhP2,000.00 (upper level of the main grandstand)
tickets will be sold at PhP3,000.00 (lower level of the main grandstand)


Cherifer Football Festival set

by Marianne L. Saberon-Abalayan

KIDS from Davao City and other parts in the Davao Region who are aged six to 12 years old are expected to join the Cherifer Football Festival set at the Tionko field on Saturday and Sunday.

Philippine Football Federation (PFF) technical director Aris Caslib on Thursday said the two-day activity will give the kids time to play soccer and at the same time meet new friends.
"We invite children to come and play at Agro field even if they don't belong to any football team. We assure them to have fun and learn basics of football like controlling the ball, dribbling and shooting," Caslib said during the regular Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum at the Tower Inn on Thursday.

July 28 ticket news and other stuff

by Rick Olivares
The Local Organizing Committee of the Philippine Men’s Football National Team Home Matches announced that:

Tickets to the July 28 match between the Philippines and Kuwait will go on sale beginning July 16 at 10am via Ticketworld. Prices for the game will remain the same: Php 200, 300, 2000, and 3000.

Tickets will contain a note on the prohibited items. The LOC apologizes for any inconveniences during the July 3 match. The prohibited items will be enforced vigorously on July 28.

For the media people covering the match, please bring protection for your cameras (raincoats and water proof gear).

Davao booters unite for DFAid

SUPPORT came as far as football associations from Lupon in Davao Oriental as Davao's football community play for one significant event and for a laudable cause here on Sunday with the staging of DFAid or Davao Football Aid which aims to gather contributions for the flashflood victims of Davao.

"We have received several calls and messages for support, some coming from as far as Davao Oriental," volunteer organizer Neil Bravo said.
DFAid is a project of the Davao Football Association in cooperation with the Davao Football Community, ABS-CBN Davao and Bravetower Promotions. Davao Football Association president Edward "Chaya" Lam called on all clubs and stakeholders to support the fund-raising project last Sunday at the Tionko Field.

5 Mexican players cleared of doping

MEXICO CITY (AP)—Five Mexican players who tested positive for the banned substance clenbuterol were cleared by their country’s soccer federation Friday.
The five—defenders Francisco Rodriguez and Edgar Duenas, goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa and midfielders Christian Bermudez and Antonio Naelson—blamed the results on contaminated meat.
They tested positive in May during training camp in Mexico before the Gold Cup. The players did not appear in the U.S. tournament. The Mexican federation said it would notify FIFA of its decision.
The federation attributed the positive tests to “contaminated food” and said there would be no punishment. The statement said the players “took all necessary measures to avoid ingesting or consuming banned substances.”

Cambodia clips 'Teen Azkals'

MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine “Teen Azkals” lost to Cambodia in the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Under-16 Youth Championship 2011 on Friday.
Cambodia, led by Nub Tola, outscored the Philippine team, 2-1.
“There are certain improvements which we need to work on especially in the passing and evading markers,” said Cambodia’s head coach Daisuke Yoshikoa in the tournament’s official website.
“But winning is always good,” he added.
The Teen Azkals' Ryu Nell Fegidero scored the lone goal for the Philippines in the first half.
However, Fegidero was sent off in the dying minutes of the game after he picked up a second booking.

Philippines appeals suspension of 2 Azkals

MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has asked the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to allow Azkals team captain Aly Borromeo and midfielder Stephan Schrock to play in the Philippines’ away-game versus Kuwait.
PFF President Mariano “Nonong” Araneta sent a letter to the AFC Disciplinary Committee seeking reconsideration of its decision to suspend the 2 players.
Araneta argued that it would be unfair to bar the Azkals from playing its complete line-up against Kuwait on July 23.
He said that unlike the Philippines, Kuwait drew a bye to make it to the second round of the World Cup Qualifiers.

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Next Azkals home game kick-off set for 7pm of July 28

by Earl Victor Rosero
Students and employees who want to watch the next home game of the men's national football team at the Rizal stadium can do so without having to go on leave from work or be absent from school. The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has announced that kick-off time on July 28 will be at 7pm -- well after usual office and class hours.

In a text message to GMA News Online, PFF local organizing committee chairman Bonnie Ladrido also said that details about the tickets will be announced on Friday, July 8.

Ladrido also confirmed the announcement of the committee's media officer, Rick Olivares, that Azkals team captain Aly Borromeo and midfielder Stephan Schrock will not see action on July 23 in Kuwait because of the one-game suspension that comes with having incurred to yellow cards. The two Azkals though will be back in action on July 28.

The Azkals are for every Juan

by Renee A. Fopalan
At a time when our senses are bombarded by everything Azkals, it may seem easy to forget what they really do. They’re everywhere, endorsing food, shoes, credit cards, mobile phones, and everything else in between. Last Sunday, the Azkals showed us what they are about- what they are really about. Last Sunday, we laid down the foundation towards the road to the World Cup.

Chieffy inspires Teen Azkals

MANILA, Philippines – The “Teen Azkals” set to compete in the ASEAN Football Federation Under-16 Youth Championship 2011 in Laos received words of encouragement from one of their idols, Azkals striker Chieffy Caligdong.
The Azkals co-captain joined the younger football squad's send-off dinner on Tuesday.
“Sinasabi ko lagi sa kanila na always believe in yourself. ‘Wag nilang i-compare ang sarili sa iba,” said Caligdong, who helped the Azkals to a 4-0 victory over the Sri Lankan Brave Reds last Sunday.
Skie Carranza, Teen Azkals team captain, said they are proud to represent the country.
“Masarap po ang feeling pag dala dala nyo ang Philippine flag sa jersey. Nakaka-encourage po sa laro namin kaya atat na atat na kaming maglaro sa labas,” he said.
The squad flew to Vientiane, Laos on Wednesday morning.
The competition will run from July 7 to 21. – With a report from TJ Manotoc, ABS-CBN News

Azkals: The death of basketball?

by Ira Pedrasa

MANILA, Philippines - Football is back - and with a bang - thanks to the Philippine Azkals, who may force basketball into oblivion.
In his column in the Philippine Daily Inquirer on Wednesday, Amando Doronila said “the revival of football means so much for sports-minded Filipinos. It means we are breaking away from the dominance of basketball—a syndrome that has stunted us from developing athletic prowess in other sports…”
Anthropologist Michael Tan agreed, saying “I like this new focus on football. For decades we have been too fixated on basketball but in terms of international competitiveness, we just don’t have it.”
He went on to say that football very much fits a Filipino’s temperament, like that of the Latin Americans.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Iligan: Azkals Fans Celebrates



Azkals Fans celebrates goal in the qualifying match between Azkals and Sri Lanka last July 3, 2011. Quoted by the maker of the vid, "We love football, we play football, we are encouraging footballers around the country to shoot also while watching the game of azkals, this is our means to show support for the Ph National Football Team, before we only cheers and watch together with our favorite International Clubs and World Cup Teams, but now we are really supporting and cheering for our own country and team! this is not a dream this is football, lets make Philippines a FOOT CRAZE country! Nothing is impossible as always taught we BELIEVE! Go azkals Go!" -Marlyndon B. Roco BSFC Pres." This clip was also featured yesterday in abs-cbn Northern Mindanao. Source

Neil thanks grandpa for inspiration in win

by Ira Pedrasa
MANILA, Philippines - It was the sight of a teary-eyed Neil Etheridge on Sunday that further endeared him to many of his fans.
There was much rejoicing around him especially when his team scored 4 goals to none in a historic finish against the Sri Lanka Red Braves, but the Azkal goalie was not embarrassed to shed tears, both of happiness and of sorrow.
Minutes after the match ended, the Fil-Brit goal keeper immediately changed shirts that bore the words: “Rest in Peace, Granddad.”
The shirt also showed a picture of him and his English grandfather, who died weeks ago. Across his back, was printed “You will always be remembered.”
In a text message, Azkals administration manager Jojo Rodriguez said Etheridge’s grand father, whom he had a close relationship with, died weeks ago before their training camp in Germany.

2 Azkals suspended for next match

MANILA, Philippines - Aly Borromeo and Stephan Schrock of the Philippine Azkals have been suspended for their next match against Kuwait after incurring 2 yellow cards in their first round World Cup qualifier against Sri Lanka.
According to an e-mail from Guarav Thapa, the Competitions Officer of the Asian Football Confederation, the yellow cards that Borromeo and Schrock received in the games against Sri Lanka will be carried forward.
"The yellow cards received by your players from round 1 & 2 shall be carried forward," Thapa said.
The news was confirmed by Philippine Football Federation Nonong Araneta.
Borromeo and Schrock were tagged with one yellow card for each game played against the Sri Lanka Brave Reds. Source
The Azkals will play against Kuwait on the second round of the World Cup qualifier on July 23. With a report from Boyet Sison, ANC.

Monday, July 4, 2011

Azkals advance to the second round of the World Cup qualifiers with a 4-0 win over Sri Lanka

by Celest R. Flores
KICK THAT BALL. Star striker Phil Younghusband of the Philippine Azkals kicks the ball past a Sri Lankan defender during their round one match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on July 3, 2011. For more photos of the match go to Inquirer Libre Facebook
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine national football team barged into the second round of the World Cup qualifiers for the first time in history with a stunning 4-0 shutout of Sri Lanka in the 2014 Fifa round one qualifying leg at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Sunday.

“Again we made history,” said skipper Aly Borromeo. “This is just the start and we got a long way to go.”

Azkals crush Sri Lanka, will face Kuwait in 2nd round

(Updated 7:01 p.m.) In front of a drenched full-capacity home crowd, the Philippine Azkals clobbered Sri Lanka in the second leg of their 2014 World Cup Asia qualifiers, advancing to the second round where the Pinoy footballers will face Kuwait.

Playing in a pouring rain, Phil Younghusband scored twice while Chieffy Caligdong and Angel Guirado added one goal each.

Phil was injured in the first Sri Lanka match in Colombo last Wednesday, but that did not deter him from scoring Sunday afternoon.

Striker Caligdong's shot ricocheted off the left goal post and went in to give the Philippines a 1-0 lead in the 19th minute of the opening half.

James Younghusband (right) of the Philippines chases a Sri Lankan player in their game 2014 World Cup Asia group playoffs at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.


Caligdong showcased his veteran moves against a three-man Sri Lanka defense line protecting the front of the goal, but with highly-skilled footwork, he positioned the ball to a spot where a gap opened.

The gap was small enough for the ball to go through, powered by a banana kick Caligdong executed by using the inside of his foot to strike the outside of the ball, which shot straight the right goal post and bouncing rightward into the net.

At the 43rd minute, Phil made his first goal to make it 2-0.

Phil was able to outwit a Sri Lankan defender and goalkeeper Manjula Fernando, who came up to meet him. The younger Younghusband nudged the ball to the left. The front of the goal was wide open. Another Sri Lankan was rushing in to try to stop him, but the Azkals' midfielder simply beat him to the ball and shot it into the goal with a banana kick using his left leg.

Azkals up lead vs Brave Reds, 4-0

by Dennis Gasgonia and Ira Pedrasa

MANILA, Philippines (3rd UPDATE) – The Philippine Azkals now have a 4-0 lead over the Sri Lankan Brave Reds in the second leg of their FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Azkals winger Chieffy Caligdong scored the first goal at the 18th minute.
He found the back of the net with a strike in the 18th minute that caromed off the left post.
Another goal by Azkals striker Phil Younghusband in the 42nd minute made it 2-0 in favor of the Philippines.
The Filipino-British footballer evaded 2 defenders and the Sri Lankan goal keeper to increase the Azkals' lead.

Sunday, July 3, 2011

A Reminder from 'PH Azkals'

by: Azkals (Philippine National Football Team)

Just a reminder to all those who are going to watch the game at the stadium, please leave a good impression on the visiting Sri Lankan supporters. Don't boo their national anthem, don't swear at them, don't give them the finger, don't spit at them, don't do racist/insulting chants. This is football after all, the beautiful game. There is no room for such ugly scenes in a game.

If they did these to Filipinos in Sri Lanka, let us show them that we are different; we are a decent and respectful people. We are Filipinos after all. Let us not stoop down to the level of hooligans and savages. 

So to all those who will be watching the game this afternoon in the stadium, enjoy the game. Relish your chance to see your national team play up close. Show your passion to the world, but remember, there is a fine line between passion and hooliganism.

GO AZKALS!

Azkals promise to get aggressive against Sri Lanka in Manila today

by Cheska D. Geli

A MORE aggressive Philippine national football team will take on Sri Lanka in the second leg of the Fifa World Cup qualifiers today at the Rizal Stadium in Manila.

The Azkals will try to make use of the familiarity of the playing field and the support of a partisan crown to pull off a better finish. The previous match resulted to a 1-1 draw.
Despite the unwanted turnout of their last match, Ian Araneta said the team will remain consistent with their game plan of pressing their rivals early and concentrating more on the attack.
The team will work on its offensive strategy in trying to score the first goal of the match before an expected crowd of 15,000 supportive Filipinos.

Azkals ready for home game vs. Sri Lanka

group1 expected to play before a full stadium of 13,000 fans at the Rizal Memoria Sports Complex as they face the Sri Lanka's Brave Reds for the return leg of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers group stage playoff.

Everything is all set and taken care of by the Philippine Football Federation (PFF), the local host of the match. “We're 100 percent ready and we are expecting a full stadium tomorrow, said Cathy Rivilla, chair of the local organizing committee during the pre-match press conference at the Rizal Stadium.

Despite the 1-1 draw result last Wednesday in Colombo, Azkals Coach Hans Michael Weiss

Fil-Canadian goalie hopes to suit up for Phl team

by Joaquin Henson
Manila, Philippines - For teenaged Fil-Canadian goalkeeper Stephanie Ang-Cogswell, the ultimate dream is to represent the Philippines in international competition and elevate her game to the highest level possible.
Stephanie, or Buppy as she is fondly called, was introduced to football when she was six and took to goalkeeping like fish to water. At 13, the 5-5 daughter of former PBA broadcaster Ronith Ang plays the game she loves five days a week, 11 months of the year. She’s the netkeeper for the Vancouver Football Club from September to March, the Little Flower Academy varsity from April to May and Mountain Football Club in the summer league from June to July.
Last weekend, Stephanie led Mountain F. C. to the Baker Blast title in Bellingham, Washington. The three-day tournament gathered 12 under-14 teams from British Columbia and Washington. Mountain F. C. posted a 5-0 record, scoring 27 goals and yielding only one on a penalty.

Fil-German midfield gem for Azkals

MANILA—Wearing size 6.5 shoes, Filipino-German midfielder Stephan Schrock probably has the smallest feet in the Philippine team.
That fact, however, belies his key role for the Azkals, who are looking to advance to the second round of World Cup qualifying for the first time when they face Sri Lanka today at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
The 24-year-old standout from German second division side Greuther Furth was the driving force at midfield in the 1-1 draw against the Sri Lankans in the first leg in Colombo.
On more than one occasion, Schrock was a cut above the rest, skipping past defenders and supplying some defense-splitting passes despite the poor condition of the pitch, which has been partly blamed by the Azkals’ dip in form.
One such pass—an inch-perfect lob that sailed over the

LBC United Football League may be televised

Manila, JULY 3 (Sugod.com) – The league which produced the squad who defeated the Philippines national football team asked fans a very important question: “Would you like the UFL to be televised?”.
The idea of a full slate of regularly televised matches is still a long way away. But fans immediately liked the concept of doing live broadcast of UFL matches.
“I guess its about time to recognize (these) players and show the whole country that we also excel in other sports” said a fan in his comment on the social networking site.
“A big leap for football in the Philippines. By airing the UFL, it can attract more viewers, supporters and sponsors” another fan added.
Definitely, it is the first step to a thousand more.

Azkals: Amazing pitch, home crowd will be key

by Earl Victor Rosero
"The pitch is amazing!" Coach Michael Weiss was all compliments Saturday about the condition of the green turf of the Rizal Stadium where the men's national teams of Sri Lanka and the Philippines took turns for practice sessions.

Team manager Dan Palami was also thrilled that the playing field the Azkals came back to will let them run better and make the ball roll the way they want it to roll. There is the also the home game factor.

"I'm confident that the guys will be able to play the way we should play considering the crowd and the better pitch," Palami said via Twitter.

Azkals in high spirits, all set vs Sri Lanka

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals are ready to go for their home game against the Sri Lankan Brave Reds at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on Sunday as they tangle for the right to advance to the next round of the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The Nationals are positive that the hometown advantage will give them the needed boost to get past Sri Lanka, which held them to a 1-1 draw last Wednesday.

Saturday, July 2, 2011

Phil Younghusband cleared for Azkals home leg vs Sri Lanka

Cedelf P. Tupas
MANILA—The “miracle” Philippine striker Phil Younghusband had hoped for happened yesterday.
The country’s top international scorer the past five years has made himself available for the home leg of the Azkals’ first-round World Cup qualifying duel against Sri Lanka at the Rizal Memorial Stadium this Sunday.
His presence thrown into doubt after limping off in the 40th minute in the 1-1 first leg draw in Colombo, Younghusband was cleared by Dr. Randolf Molo, a sports medicine specialist at St. Luke’s, yesterday after an MRI revealed the hamstring injury was not as serious as the striker had earlier feared.
The Sri Lankans scored three minutes after Younghusband’s departure, but his replacement, Filipino-American striker Nate Burkey, headed home the equalizer in the 50th

Bahrain wants ‘friendlies’ versus Azkals

Cedelf P. Tupas
COLOMBO—The Philippine Azkals team are finally getting noticed even by a strong footballing nation from the Middle East.
Whatever the outcome of their first round World Cup qualifying tie against Sri Lanka, the Azkals will be flying to Bahrain in the middle of July for a couple of friendly matches against teams from the Middle East powerhouse.
The Azkals were looking to overcome the Sri Lankans at the Sugathadasa Stadium in the first leg of their tie being played at presstime here.
The second leg is scheduled Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.

Azkals ready, excited to play before home crowd

by Earl Victor Rosero
"Cohesion takes time," Philippines men's national football team coach Michael Weiss said Saturday morning as he asked for understanding as regards the performance of his players thus far. But for Sunday's World Cup Qualifiers match, Weiss assured that his team is feeling "no pressure" because they are fit, excited and happy to play on home soil.

Azkals team captain Aly Borromeo said, "Team spirit's high." He explained the team's excitement about Sunday's match is partly due to the fact that they will try to qualify for the World Cup before a home crowd.

Weis said that with the unavailability of Ray Jonsson, "We had to make adjustments." He also said it was important for the team "to get back into mental fitness and physical fitness" as soon as they got home, so he gave the national players time "to refresh and settle down with
their families."

Friday, July 1, 2011

Eastern Samar Borongan Football Festival

Eastern Samar Borongan Team in cooperation with the City of Borongan and Provincial Government of Eastern Samar will launch the very first "Eastern Samar Borongan Football Team Cup 7-A side National Football Festival" scheduled on September 3-4, 2011 at Baybay Seawall Beach shore. This is in relation with to the Borongan City Fiesta Celebration.


The Eastern Samar Borongan Team would like to invite City,schools,football clubs to this event which will serve as goodwill and for match exposures to aspiring young talents. 


Registration  Fee per categories is only P500. Categories are Men's Open, 17-Under Girls and Boys  and 12-Under Divisions. 


GOOD NEWS is: Host will offer FREE ACCOMMODATION, and FREE 2 DAYS MEAL, (breakfast,lunch,dinner). 


Here is the Invitation