It’s definitely payback time.
Philippine Azkals with their promise of giving their 100% best play for this make or break second game versus Sri Lanka’s Brave Reds had achieved more than their target.
With crowds filling up almost all the sets in Rizal Memorial Stadium in the Philippines, both the Azkals and Brave Reds had showcased a great show.
Despite the rain pouring over during the first few minutes of the first half, with determination and sufficient energy to dominate the game, during the 19th minute of the first half, Azkals co-captain Chieffy Caligdong started the success of the Nationals with the first goal for the second game which was later followed by the controversial goal of Phil Younghusband on the 43rd minute.
However, it’s not just all glory for the Azkals as two of their players got two yellow cards forbidding them to play for the next game against Kuwait.
More exciting scenes followed on when the second half took over.
A momentous goal coming from Angel Guirado had once again boosted the morale of the team Azkals. Then out from a penalty kick, another score was added from the popular Azkals player Phil giving them a 4 point lead against Brave Reds from the aggregate score 5-1.
The early start of owning the ball by Philippine Azkals had put the Brave Reds in the defensive mood. There are plenty of kicks for goal from the said team, coming from anywhere.
It’s indeed a game worth watching. In fact, spotted in the said game was the rumoured girlfriend of Phil Younghusband, Angel Locsin together with her friend Bubbles Paraiso who joined the crowd in cheering.
With Azkals record breaking victory against Brave Reds, it’s safe to say that they had achieved their goal not just to make it to the next level of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifier but also they had proven that they are no longer the same team that Sri Lanka had defeated 15 years ago.