By Olmin Leyba - (The Philippine Star)
MANILA, Philippines - Azkals coach Michael Weiss expressed guarded optimism of Phl XI’s chances in the Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese-Taipei, noting how far from being one cohesive unit his combo of seniors and under-23 players is right now.
“We’re still lacking in some areas but the team is making good progress,” said Weiss prior to leaving for Kaohsiung for the Sept. 30-Oct.4 competition among defending champion Hong Kong, the Philippines, Macau, and host Taiwanese.
“Our preparation lacked consistency. But the positive thing is there are new players moving up and ready to take responsibility,” he added.
Weiss has assembled a team of 10 Azkals stalwarts and 10 members of the Southeast Asian Games U-23 pool to try improve the Philippines’ third place finish last year.
Aly Borromeo, Chieffy Caligdong, Phil and James Younghusband, Roel Gener, Angel Guirado, Misagh Bahadoran, Ian Araneta, Jason de Jong and Eduard Sacapano will provide the experience to the Phl side.
New recruits are Fil-Spanish Carli De Murga, Fil-British siblings Mark and Matthew Hartmann, Fil-Germans Roland Muller and Oliver Poetschke, and U-23 players Lemuel Unabia, Reymark Fernandez, Jeff Christiaens and Nickson Leonora, who will fill in for Europe-based Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock and Paul Mulders.
“It will take some time to fulfill the potential of the team,” Weiss said.
The Azkals arrived in Kaohshiung yesterday and will kick off their campaign against Hong Kong on Sept. 30.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Azkals manager Dan Palami says he’s not running for PFF president, to back Nonong Araneta
By Mike T. Limpag - Sun Star Cebu
THANKS but no, thanks.
Philippine national men’s football team manager Dan Palami shot down the idea of him replacing Nonong Araneta as the president of the Philippine Football Federation in the November elections.
Palami said football in the Philippines hasn’t reached its full potential yet and running against Araneta would be a divisive exercise.
“I’m sure they have their reasons to prod me to run. They know that I have the best interest of football in mind. They know of my management skills. However, I don’t want this. Football in the Philippines hasn’t fully blossomed and I don’t want a divisive exercise,” said Palami.
Palami, who recently resigned from his position at APT Global Inc. to concentrate on his job as the team manager and four other positions in his real estate companies, manpower company, a school board and as head of marketing of the PFF, said he supports Araneta.
“I’m contented with the support that Nonong Araneta is giving us and this is the time for us to unite behind the PFF,” Palami said.
Araneta, who was also prodded by stakeholders to run in the 2007 elections against Mari Martinez and Ed Formosa, took over the PFF presidency in December last year when the PFF Board of Governors ousted Martinez.
Palami said he will support Araneta if he decides to run for another term in the November elections.
“He (Araneta) will have my support and I hope he continues to support my initiatives as manager of the national team,” said Palami.
Meanwhile, Palami said the national team will try to maximize the Fifa-designated dates for friendlies in 2012, which could mean a busy year for the Azkals.
“Playing friendlies is one way of improving our rank,” Palami said. “It will give the players more time to play together for better cohesion. It will also allow us to evaluate new players.”
Aside from friendlies against national team, Palami said an events management company has offered to bring in European clubs and said they have received offers from second and third division teams in Spain.
“If Liverpool can have a friendly in Malaysia, perhaps the Philippines will be the next stop?” said Palami, who acknowledged bringing in a top tier club like Liverpool would be expensive.
“We are also looking at inviting Fulham, Neil Etheridge’s club, for a friendly,” he said.
Aside from the friendlies, the Azkals will be joining two tournaments next year—the AFC Challenge Cup and the Suzuki Cup.
The Azkals qualified for the AFC Challenge Cup main draw in Nepal for the first time after winning the qualifiers last March and for the Suzuki Cup, the Azkals won’t have to go through the qualifiers for the first time.
“Before the Challenge Cup, we are planning to hold a training camp in the Gulf area,” he said.
Palami also said the PFF is looking at hosting the Suzuki Cup but the lack of pitches is hampering that move.
“Manila needs a second pitch,” he said.
THANKS but no, thanks.
Philippine national men’s football team manager Dan Palami shot down the idea of him replacing Nonong Araneta as the president of the Philippine Football Federation in the November elections.
Palami said football in the Philippines hasn’t reached its full potential yet and running against Araneta would be a divisive exercise.
“I’m sure they have their reasons to prod me to run. They know that I have the best interest of football in mind. They know of my management skills. However, I don’t want this. Football in the Philippines hasn’t fully blossomed and I don’t want a divisive exercise,” said Palami.
Palami, who recently resigned from his position at APT Global Inc. to concentrate on his job as the team manager and four other positions in his real estate companies, manpower company, a school board and as head of marketing of the PFF, said he supports Araneta.
“I’m contented with the support that Nonong Araneta is giving us and this is the time for us to unite behind the PFF,” Palami said.
Araneta, who was also prodded by stakeholders to run in the 2007 elections against Mari Martinez and Ed Formosa, took over the PFF presidency in December last year when the PFF Board of Governors ousted Martinez.
Palami said he will support Araneta if he decides to run for another term in the November elections.
“He (Araneta) will have my support and I hope he continues to support my initiatives as manager of the national team,” said Palami.
Meanwhile, Palami said the national team will try to maximize the Fifa-designated dates for friendlies in 2012, which could mean a busy year for the Azkals.
“Playing friendlies is one way of improving our rank,” Palami said. “It will give the players more time to play together for better cohesion. It will also allow us to evaluate new players.”
Aside from friendlies against national team, Palami said an events management company has offered to bring in European clubs and said they have received offers from second and third division teams in Spain.
“If Liverpool can have a friendly in Malaysia, perhaps the Philippines will be the next stop?” said Palami, who acknowledged bringing in a top tier club like Liverpool would be expensive.
“We are also looking at inviting Fulham, Neil Etheridge’s club, for a friendly,” he said.
Aside from the friendlies, the Azkals will be joining two tournaments next year—the AFC Challenge Cup and the Suzuki Cup.
The Azkals qualified for the AFC Challenge Cup main draw in Nepal for the first time after winning the qualifiers last March and for the Suzuki Cup, the Azkals won’t have to go through the qualifiers for the first time.
“Before the Challenge Cup, we are planning to hold a training camp in the Gulf area,” he said.
Palami also said the PFF is looking at hosting the Suzuki Cup but the lack of pitches is hampering that move.
“Manila needs a second pitch,” he said.
Azkals face slight changes in defense
BY BONG PEDRALVEZ - Malaya Business Insight
SLOWLY but surely, changes in the national men’s football team are taking place.
In the Azkals’ recent workout at the Rizal Memorial pitch, German coach Michael Weiss, within everybody’s hearing, asked: "Tell me, who is the player not playing his normal position?"
Out on the pitch, one player was obviously out of his usual spot: regular midfielder James Younghusband, 25, was playing defense at right fullback, a position long held by fellow Fil-Brit Rob Gier.
"James seems to be right for the spot. He has speed, good field vision and is also strong," said Weiss of his decision to test the older of the Younghusband brothers at the backline.
Football chief Mariano Araneta Jr., who once played for the national side, was one of those who suggested to the German mentor to try a different set-up after noting the slow reaction of the Azkals’ defense during their two-match Asian World Cup qualifying series against Kuwait.
"The defense was a step slower to respond to Kuwait’s counterattack so I suggested to coach Michael if we could make some changes in the back row," Araneta said.
At 30, Gier could barely keep pace with the relentless Kuwaiti attackers, Araneta observed.
That explains why on that slightly overcast afternoon, James, who has played midfield most of his career, found himself in an unfamiliar spot, aligned with team captain Aly Borromeo in anchoring the defense.
Watching from the sidelines, a small smile appeared on the usually serious German drillmaster’s face as he watched Younghusband perform on the field, apparently pleased with the tinkering he had done.
Like a good soldier, the lanky Azkal resolutely played his role without complaint, although after the workout James said he preferred his old midfield position.
SLOWLY but surely, changes in the national men’s football team are taking place.
In the Azkals’ recent workout at the Rizal Memorial pitch, German coach Michael Weiss, within everybody’s hearing, asked: "Tell me, who is the player not playing his normal position?"
Out on the pitch, one player was obviously out of his usual spot: regular midfielder James Younghusband, 25, was playing defense at right fullback, a position long held by fellow Fil-Brit Rob Gier.
"James seems to be right for the spot. He has speed, good field vision and is also strong," said Weiss of his decision to test the older of the Younghusband brothers at the backline.
Football chief Mariano Araneta Jr., who once played for the national side, was one of those who suggested to the German mentor to try a different set-up after noting the slow reaction of the Azkals’ defense during their two-match Asian World Cup qualifying series against Kuwait.
"The defense was a step slower to respond to Kuwait’s counterattack so I suggested to coach Michael if we could make some changes in the back row," Araneta said.
At 30, Gier could barely keep pace with the relentless Kuwaiti attackers, Araneta observed.
That explains why on that slightly overcast afternoon, James, who has played midfield most of his career, found himself in an unfamiliar spot, aligned with team captain Aly Borromeo in anchoring the defense.
Watching from the sidelines, a small smile appeared on the usually serious German drillmaster’s face as he watched Younghusband perform on the field, apparently pleased with the tinkering he had done.
Like a good soldier, the lanky Azkal resolutely played his role without complaint, although after the workout James said he preferred his old midfield position.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Azkals to field mix of veterans, youth
By Olmin Leyba (The Philippine Star)
MANILA, Philippines - A mix of veteran Azkals and under-23 players will carry the fight for the Philippines in the four-nation Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei from Sept. 30 to Oct 4.
Skipper Aly Borromeo and seasoned players Chieffy Caligdong and Ian Araneta, the tourney’s top scorer with four goals last year, will banner the Phl side along with Azkals teammates Phil and James Younghusband, Angel Guirado, Roel Gener, Eduard Sacapaño, Misagh Bahadoran and Jason de Jong.
Joining them are mainstays of the U-23 pool currently training for the Southeast Asian Games, led by Fil-German goalkeeper Roland Mueller, Fil-Spanish rightback Carlos Alberto Martinez de Murga, Fil-Belgian midfielder Jeffrey Christiaens, and Fil-British siblings Mark and Matthew Hartmann.
U-23 bets Reymark Fernandez, Limuel Unabia, and Neckson Leonora and seniors Oliver Potschke and Moy Lexton complete the squad set to do battle against holders Hong Kong, host Chinese Taipei and Macau.
“I think we can consider the team we’ll be sending over to Long Teng Cup this year considerably stronger than the team that we had last time. So we’re looking at better chances, better opportunities,” said Azkals team manager Dan Palami during a joint training of the seniors and U-23 teams at the Rizal Stadium.
Last year, the Phl XI logged one win, one draw and one loss in the round-robin meet to finish third overall behind Hong Kong, then represented by its U-23 side, and the Taiwanese. Macau wound up fourth in that tourney.
“As far as management of the Philippine national team is concerned, the Long Teng Cup (participation) is geared towards allowing us to improve on our (Fifa world) rankings and at the same time, allowing the players to really have more international matches to play together,” he added.
The newbies, especially the U-23 booters, are being given exposure to test them in an international joust in preparation for the SEA Games in November, and future tournaments.
“The new players are quite promising, actually not just promising but very good additions to team and we are eager to watch them in the international competitions,” said Palami.
The Azkals will kick off their campaign against defending champion Hong Kong, to be represented by its full national team this time, on Sept. 30 at the Kaoshiung National Stadium. They will play the hosts on Oct. 2 then wind up their stint against Macau on Oct. 4.
MANILA, Philippines - A mix of veteran Azkals and under-23 players will carry the fight for the Philippines in the four-nation Long Teng Cup in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei from Sept. 30 to Oct 4.
Skipper Aly Borromeo and seasoned players Chieffy Caligdong and Ian Araneta, the tourney’s top scorer with four goals last year, will banner the Phl side along with Azkals teammates Phil and James Younghusband, Angel Guirado, Roel Gener, Eduard Sacapaño, Misagh Bahadoran and Jason de Jong.
Joining them are mainstays of the U-23 pool currently training for the Southeast Asian Games, led by Fil-German goalkeeper Roland Mueller, Fil-Spanish rightback Carlos Alberto Martinez de Murga, Fil-Belgian midfielder Jeffrey Christiaens, and Fil-British siblings Mark and Matthew Hartmann.
U-23 bets Reymark Fernandez, Limuel Unabia, and Neckson Leonora and seniors Oliver Potschke and Moy Lexton complete the squad set to do battle against holders Hong Kong, host Chinese Taipei and Macau.
“I think we can consider the team we’ll be sending over to Long Teng Cup this year considerably stronger than the team that we had last time. So we’re looking at better chances, better opportunities,” said Azkals team manager Dan Palami during a joint training of the seniors and U-23 teams at the Rizal Stadium.
Last year, the Phl XI logged one win, one draw and one loss in the round-robin meet to finish third overall behind Hong Kong, then represented by its U-23 side, and the Taiwanese. Macau wound up fourth in that tourney.
“As far as management of the Philippine national team is concerned, the Long Teng Cup (participation) is geared towards allowing us to improve on our (Fifa world) rankings and at the same time, allowing the players to really have more international matches to play together,” he added.
The newbies, especially the U-23 booters, are being given exposure to test them in an international joust in preparation for the SEA Games in November, and future tournaments.
“The new players are quite promising, actually not just promising but very good additions to team and we are eager to watch them in the international competitions,” said Palami.
The Azkals will kick off their campaign against defending champion Hong Kong, to be represented by its full national team this time, on Sept. 30 at the Kaoshiung National Stadium. They will play the hosts on Oct. 2 then wind up their stint against Macau on Oct. 4.
Phl Azkals nip UFL champs, 3-2
By Alder Almo (philstar.com)
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals leaned on Ian Araneta’s goal late in the match to get past UFL champion Global FC, 3-2, today in the I Can Serve Football Invitationals at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
The Azkals, who used some players from the Under-23 national team in this match, attacked aggressively from the kick-off resulting in Phil Phil Younghusband’s goal off 19-year old Fil-British Mark Hartmann’s perfect assist inside the box barely four minutes into the match.
Global Smartmatic had several chances to score but Eduard Sacapano, Neil Etheridge’s back-up, did a great job defending the pitch for the Azkals in the early minutes of the match.
Saving his own missed shot, Younghusband again connected in the 29th minute mark to double the Azkals’ lead, 2-nil.
Global's relentless attack found a crack on the Azkals’ defense that led to national training pool member Misagh Bahadoran's goal, to cut the lead, 2-1, just before the break.
Global equalized with seven minutes into the second half as Sudanese and UFL’s leading scorer Izzeldin El-Habbib scored on a long lob to tie the match at 2-all. The goal was El-Habbib’s second in the charity tournament that serves as a kick-off to Breast Cancer Awareness Month this coming October.
With the momentum shift, Global FC kept on pressuring the Azkals’ defense, which missed skipper Aly Borromeo and Anton Del Rosario due to various injuries. But Sacapano proved to be tough enough as the back-up goal keeper saved consecutive attempts by Global’s Bahadoran and El-Habbib.
Fresh legs saved the Azkals from a draw with late substitute Araneta making an immediate impact with a header from fellow reserve Jeff Christiaens in the 85th minute.
The win was the second in a row for the Azkals against Global FC, which is also being managed by national team manager Dan Palami.
The Azkals also scored a 3-1 victory against Global FC last Sept. 11 during their Bacolod training camp. With the Younghusband brothers still grieving their mother’s untimely death due to massive heart failure, Hartmann took the scoring cudgels with a hat-trick.
The Azkals will meet Kaya Cignal, which absorbed a 1-nil loss at the hands of Global last Monday, in the final game of the charity tournament organized by the I Can Serve Foundation and backed by LBC and Sun Life.
The match, which is expected to draw a good weekend crowd, will be held on Saturday at 3pm in the same venue. It will be telecast at 5pm on AKTV on IBC Channel 13, TV5's sports channel.
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals leaned on Ian Araneta’s goal late in the match to get past UFL champion Global FC, 3-2, today in the I Can Serve Football Invitationals at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
The Azkals, who used some players from the Under-23 national team in this match, attacked aggressively from the kick-off resulting in Phil Phil Younghusband’s goal off 19-year old Fil-British Mark Hartmann’s perfect assist inside the box barely four minutes into the match.
Global Smartmatic had several chances to score but Eduard Sacapano, Neil Etheridge’s back-up, did a great job defending the pitch for the Azkals in the early minutes of the match.
Saving his own missed shot, Younghusband again connected in the 29th minute mark to double the Azkals’ lead, 2-nil.
Global's relentless attack found a crack on the Azkals’ defense that led to national training pool member Misagh Bahadoran's goal, to cut the lead, 2-1, just before the break.
Global equalized with seven minutes into the second half as Sudanese and UFL’s leading scorer Izzeldin El-Habbib scored on a long lob to tie the match at 2-all. The goal was El-Habbib’s second in the charity tournament that serves as a kick-off to Breast Cancer Awareness Month this coming October.
With the momentum shift, Global FC kept on pressuring the Azkals’ defense, which missed skipper Aly Borromeo and Anton Del Rosario due to various injuries. But Sacapano proved to be tough enough as the back-up goal keeper saved consecutive attempts by Global’s Bahadoran and El-Habbib.
Fresh legs saved the Azkals from a draw with late substitute Araneta making an immediate impact with a header from fellow reserve Jeff Christiaens in the 85th minute.
The win was the second in a row for the Azkals against Global FC, which is also being managed by national team manager Dan Palami.
The Azkals also scored a 3-1 victory against Global FC last Sept. 11 during their Bacolod training camp. With the Younghusband brothers still grieving their mother’s untimely death due to massive heart failure, Hartmann took the scoring cudgels with a hat-trick.
The Azkals will meet Kaya Cignal, which absorbed a 1-nil loss at the hands of Global last Monday, in the final game of the charity tournament organized by the I Can Serve Foundation and backed by LBC and Sun Life.
The match, which is expected to draw a good weekend crowd, will be held on Saturday at 3pm in the same venue. It will be telecast at 5pm on AKTV on IBC Channel 13, TV5's sports channel.
Sam Pinto and the Azkals get excited on the Netphone
Sam Pinto and members of the Philippine national soccer team the Azkals are the latest celebrities to get on the hot tech bandwagon, as they were introduced as endorsers of the much-anticipated Netphone from wireless leader Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart).
At an event recently held at Resorts World in Pasay City, Sam and Azkals Anton Del Rosario, Jason Sabio, Ian Araneta, and Nate Burkey – announced the coming of the Netphone 701 – the first of many models in Smart’s own range of Android smartphones designed specifically for the Philippine market.
Powered by Smartnet, the Netphone allows Sam, the Azkals boys, and other Smart subscribers to enjoy social networking, instant messaging and other applications for free, and to tap into the power of the Internet through one handy, feature-packed, yet affordable device.
Officially introduced at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain early this year, the Netphone has been eagerly awaited not only by tech geeks who are familiar with the power of next generation smartphones, but also by regular folk who would like to do more than just talk and text with their cellphones.
The Netphone launch, hosted by multimedia celebrities KC Montero and Andi Manzano, saw scores of people winning Netphone 701 units. True to the connectivity promise of the device, the event created a buzz so loud that it eventually led the Netphone to trend in Twitter during its course.
Among the celebrities spotted at the event were Tim Yap, Brent Javier, Nicole Anderson, Michelle Madrigal, and Bubbles Paraiso. GMA Network artists Diva Montelaba, Steven Silva, Jay-R, Kris Lawrence, Mark Herras, and Wynwyn Marquez were also spotted at the event experiencing the best that the Netphone had to offer.
The Netphone 701 retails at P9,900 for a prepaid kit. At this price, the Netphone is the best-value Android smartphone in its class. It also comes free starting at All-In Plan 1200, on all Data Unli Plans, and on Data Lite Plan 800.
At an event recently held at Resorts World in Pasay City, Sam and Azkals Anton Del Rosario, Jason Sabio, Ian Araneta, and Nate Burkey – announced the coming of the Netphone 701 – the first of many models in Smart’s own range of Android smartphones designed specifically for the Philippine market.
Powered by Smartnet, the Netphone allows Sam, the Azkals boys, and other Smart subscribers to enjoy social networking, instant messaging and other applications for free, and to tap into the power of the Internet through one handy, feature-packed, yet affordable device.
Officially introduced at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain early this year, the Netphone has been eagerly awaited not only by tech geeks who are familiar with the power of next generation smartphones, but also by regular folk who would like to do more than just talk and text with their cellphones.
The Netphone launch, hosted by multimedia celebrities KC Montero and Andi Manzano, saw scores of people winning Netphone 701 units. True to the connectivity promise of the device, the event created a buzz so loud that it eventually led the Netphone to trend in Twitter during its course.
Among the celebrities spotted at the event were Tim Yap, Brent Javier, Nicole Anderson, Michelle Madrigal, and Bubbles Paraiso. GMA Network artists Diva Montelaba, Steven Silva, Jay-R, Kris Lawrence, Mark Herras, and Wynwyn Marquez were also spotted at the event experiencing the best that the Netphone had to offer.
The Netphone 701 retails at P9,900 for a prepaid kit. At this price, the Netphone is the best-value Android smartphone in its class. It also comes free starting at All-In Plan 1200, on all Data Unli Plans, and on Data Lite Plan 800.
UFL lures top Azkals
Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines — With players from the Philippine Azkals boosting some of the teams, this year’s United Football League that kicks off Oct. 8 promises to be one memorable event.
Filipino-Spanish Angel Guirado, who has already scored three international goals for the country, is joining defending champion Global FC, who, along with last January’s losing finalist Air Force, are considered the favorites.
Filipino-British brothers Phil and James Younghusband are linking up with the Loyola Meralco Sparks, while Nate Burkey and Jason Sabio are teaming up with fellow Azkals Aly Borromeo, Anton del Rosario, and Yannick Tuason for Kaya FC.
With the addition of Burkey and Sabio, who traces his roots in Koronadal City, Kaya FC may pull off a big surprise in the event which hopes to attract more Filipinos to take up the sport.
At least 25 teams will vie for supremacy, including 13 squads from Cebu, Leyte, and Baguio. The draw is set to take place at E’s Bar in Edsa Shangri-la Hotel on Friday.
A television deal with TV5, which will air the games via AKTV channel 13, is also expected to be signed on the same day.
MANILA, Philippines — With players from the Philippine Azkals boosting some of the teams, this year’s United Football League that kicks off Oct. 8 promises to be one memorable event.
Filipino-Spanish Angel Guirado, who has already scored three international goals for the country, is joining defending champion Global FC, who, along with last January’s losing finalist Air Force, are considered the favorites.
Filipino-British brothers Phil and James Younghusband are linking up with the Loyola Meralco Sparks, while Nate Burkey and Jason Sabio are teaming up with fellow Azkals Aly Borromeo, Anton del Rosario, and Yannick Tuason for Kaya FC.
With the addition of Burkey and Sabio, who traces his roots in Koronadal City, Kaya FC may pull off a big surprise in the event which hopes to attract more Filipinos to take up the sport.
At least 25 teams will vie for supremacy, including 13 squads from Cebu, Leyte, and Baguio. The draw is set to take place at E’s Bar in Edsa Shangri-la Hotel on Friday.
A television deal with TV5, which will air the games via AKTV channel 13, is also expected to be signed on the same day.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Azkals stamp class over Negros, problems hound men’s nat’l team
The Visayan Daily Star
An estimated 7,000 crowd that included Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr., gathered at the Panaad Stadium last night to watch the Azkals tame the host team Ceres – Negros, 3-1, in a friendly that served as a tune-up game for the pool of players who will join the national men’s football team for its upcoming international tournaments.
Striker Mark Hartmann delivered to goals for the Azkals in the 35th and 82nd minute, while Ian Araneta beat Ceres-Negros keeper Michael Casas in the 46th minute to keep the Azkals’ reputation shiny despite the absence of regulars such as captain Aly Borromeo, co-captain Chieffy Caligdong and Younghusband brothers James and Phil.
Despite going down 3-1, Ceres-Negros delivered serious threats and challenged the Azkals defense in the first half, though they failed to convert the attempts with Edward Sacapano manning the Azkals’ goal.
Not giving up easily, the Negrenses showed off the stuff that made them champion in the PFF Suzuki Under 23 National Championship in summer with Ruben Doctor Jr. hammering in a goal in the 69th minute for the host team.
The intensity of the locals impressed both Azkals head coach Hans Michael Weiss and team manager Dan Palami, who said that some of the players in the Ceres-Negros Team are being eyed to join the national team training pool in preparation for the November Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia.
“We are hoping to tap some of the players from Ceres – Negros as we are putting up a bigger pool for the Azkals to have a wider choice and options,” Palami said during the post-game press conference.
He said that the Azkals who arrived in Bacolod last week is a very young team although the talent is very much present.
Weiss, meantime, admitted that the team has been undergoing some problems with the players who had failed to communicate with the team, preferring to go on a “longer holiday” instead of reporting back for practice.
Weiss said it seems that success has gone to the head of some of the players.
“We have been very patient and very supportive with the players for the past eight months. We are now on the process of tapping alternative players for the training pool for more options,” the national team coach said.
Palami, however, stressed that having “more option” does not mean that those who did not join the team’s camp in Bacolod or those who did not report for practice are already out of the team.
He explained that they are giving all the Azkals time to think and consider their own options and the team, meanwhile, will continue to build a stronger lineup.
An estimated 7,000 crowd that included Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr., gathered at the Panaad Stadium last night to watch the Azkals tame the host team Ceres – Negros, 3-1, in a friendly that served as a tune-up game for the pool of players who will join the national men’s football team for its upcoming international tournaments.
Striker Mark Hartmann delivered to goals for the Azkals in the 35th and 82nd minute, while Ian Araneta beat Ceres-Negros keeper Michael Casas in the 46th minute to keep the Azkals’ reputation shiny despite the absence of regulars such as captain Aly Borromeo, co-captain Chieffy Caligdong and Younghusband brothers James and Phil.
Despite going down 3-1, Ceres-Negros delivered serious threats and challenged the Azkals defense in the first half, though they failed to convert the attempts with Edward Sacapano manning the Azkals’ goal.
Not giving up easily, the Negrenses showed off the stuff that made them champion in the PFF Suzuki Under 23 National Championship in summer with Ruben Doctor Jr. hammering in a goal in the 69th minute for the host team.
The intensity of the locals impressed both Azkals head coach Hans Michael Weiss and team manager Dan Palami, who said that some of the players in the Ceres-Negros Team are being eyed to join the national team training pool in preparation for the November Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia.
“We are hoping to tap some of the players from Ceres – Negros as we are putting up a bigger pool for the Azkals to have a wider choice and options,” Palami said during the post-game press conference.
He said that the Azkals who arrived in Bacolod last week is a very young team although the talent is very much present.
Weiss, meantime, admitted that the team has been undergoing some problems with the players who had failed to communicate with the team, preferring to go on a “longer holiday” instead of reporting back for practice.
Weiss said it seems that success has gone to the head of some of the players.
“We have been very patient and very supportive with the players for the past eight months. We are now on the process of tapping alternative players for the training pool for more options,” the national team coach said.
Palami, however, stressed that having “more option” does not mean that those who did not join the team’s camp in Bacolod or those who did not report for practice are already out of the team.
He explained that they are giving all the Azkals time to think and consider their own options and the team, meanwhile, will continue to build a stronger lineup.
Azkals, UFL clubs play in charity event
Malaya Business Insight
A CHARITY football tournament featuring the Philippine Azkals and top United Football League clubs Global FC and Kaya FC will be held on Sept. 19-24 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Dubbed the "I Can Serve Invitational," the tournament will be a single-round event, with Azkals like Aly Borromeo, Anton del Rosario, Jason Sabio, Nate Burkey of Kaya and Misagh Bahadoran of Global playing for their respective clubs when they face the national team.
Proceeds of the tournament will benefit the I Can Serve Foundation, a non-profit organization helping raise awareness on breast cancer, Kaya managing director Armand del Rosario said in yesterday’s PSA Forum at Shakey’s UN Ave.
Joining Del Rosario in the public service program backed by Smart, Pagcor, Outlast Battery, Accel and Shakey’s was I Can Serve vice-president Crisann Celdran.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Celdran said the event augurs well for their activities next month.
A CHARITY football tournament featuring the Philippine Azkals and top United Football League clubs Global FC and Kaya FC will be held on Sept. 19-24 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Dubbed the "I Can Serve Invitational," the tournament will be a single-round event, with Azkals like Aly Borromeo, Anton del Rosario, Jason Sabio, Nate Burkey of Kaya and Misagh Bahadoran of Global playing for their respective clubs when they face the national team.
Proceeds of the tournament will benefit the I Can Serve Foundation, a non-profit organization helping raise awareness on breast cancer, Kaya managing director Armand del Rosario said in yesterday’s PSA Forum at Shakey’s UN Ave.
Joining Del Rosario in the public service program backed by Smart, Pagcor, Outlast Battery, Accel and Shakey’s was I Can Serve vice-president Crisann Celdran.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Celdran said the event augurs well for their activities next month.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Negrenses test Azkals’ strength in friendly match at Panaad today Province to launch Negros Football League
NAB - The Visayan Daily Star
At 5:30 p.m. today at the Panaad Stadium, Negrenses will be seeing the Under 23 Ceres – Negros Team battle against the national men’s squad Azkals, in a friendly game that will showcase the talent of the local boys who bagged the crown in the PFF Suzuki Cup Under 23 national championship.
The Azkals will be playing minus its Fil-foreign mainstays such as keeper Neil Etheridge, midfield Stephan Schrock and Younghusband brothers James and Phil, who left Bacolod Sunday for Manila where their mother died on Saturday night.
The match against the Negros team will also serve as a tune-up match for the Under 23 Azkals who will be representing the country in the Jakarta Southeast Asian Games slated in November.
Earlier, Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss said they have a young team and they are looking for new talents who will boost the lineup. Several Negrense players, who will be playing this afternoon for the Ceres – Negros Team, were invited to join the Azkals’ camp while they are in Bacolod.
Before the game, a preliminary match between Bacolod United and Real Negrense will be held at 4 p.m.
The preliminaries will give the Negrenses a glimpse of the two teams that will be seeing action in the Negros Football League that will kick off on September 17.
Executive Assistant to the Governor Angel “Nonong” Verdeflor yesterday said that they will have a short program this afternoon to launch the NFL.
With football as one of the priority sports programs of Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr., Verdeflor said the NFL will bring out the talents from the countryside and will pave the way for bigger football tournaments in Negros Occidental.
Lending his expertise to the NFL is Junie Lizares, the brains behind the multi-titled Executive Village Football Club, who said the NFL will help the Philippine Football Federation in boosting the stock of talents for the men’s team.
As one of the pillars in PFF’s women’s football development committee, Lizares said it is high team for Negros Occidental to develop its own league that will complement the thrusts of the provincial government.
On its inaugural offering, 16 teams from as far as Kabankalan City in the south and San Carlos City in the north, joining the league.
The teams will be divided into brackets and will play on weekends at the Panaaad, Lizares said.
Listed in Bracket A are: San Carlos FC, Bacolod United FC, Pontevedra FC, Sagay FC, Las Buenas FC, Magallon United FC, City of Kabankalan FC, and Bago City FC.
Grouped in Bracket B are Real Negrense FC, Ceres Liner FC, Himamaylan FC, La Castellana FC, La Carlota City FC, Minuluan Talisay FC, Don Bosco FC, and Cadiz FC.
At 5:30 p.m. today at the Panaad Stadium, Negrenses will be seeing the Under 23 Ceres – Negros Team battle against the national men’s squad Azkals, in a friendly game that will showcase the talent of the local boys who bagged the crown in the PFF Suzuki Cup Under 23 national championship.
The Azkals will be playing minus its Fil-foreign mainstays such as keeper Neil Etheridge, midfield Stephan Schrock and Younghusband brothers James and Phil, who left Bacolod Sunday for Manila where their mother died on Saturday night.
The match against the Negros team will also serve as a tune-up match for the Under 23 Azkals who will be representing the country in the Jakarta Southeast Asian Games slated in November.
Earlier, Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss said they have a young team and they are looking for new talents who will boost the lineup. Several Negrense players, who will be playing this afternoon for the Ceres – Negros Team, were invited to join the Azkals’ camp while they are in Bacolod.
Before the game, a preliminary match between Bacolod United and Real Negrense will be held at 4 p.m.
The preliminaries will give the Negrenses a glimpse of the two teams that will be seeing action in the Negros Football League that will kick off on September 17.
Executive Assistant to the Governor Angel “Nonong” Verdeflor yesterday said that they will have a short program this afternoon to launch the NFL.
With football as one of the priority sports programs of Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr., Verdeflor said the NFL will bring out the talents from the countryside and will pave the way for bigger football tournaments in Negros Occidental.
Lending his expertise to the NFL is Junie Lizares, the brains behind the multi-titled Executive Village Football Club, who said the NFL will help the Philippine Football Federation in boosting the stock of talents for the men’s team.
As one of the pillars in PFF’s women’s football development committee, Lizares said it is high team for Negros Occidental to develop its own league that will complement the thrusts of the provincial government.
On its inaugural offering, 16 teams from as far as Kabankalan City in the south and San Carlos City in the north, joining the league.
The teams will be divided into brackets and will play on weekends at the Panaaad, Lizares said.
Listed in Bracket A are: San Carlos FC, Bacolod United FC, Pontevedra FC, Sagay FC, Las Buenas FC, Magallon United FC, City of Kabankalan FC, and Bago City FC.
Grouped in Bracket B are Real Negrense FC, Ceres Liner FC, Himamaylan FC, La Castellana FC, La Carlota City FC, Minuluan Talisay FC, Don Bosco FC, and Cadiz FC.
Azkals, Angel condole with Younghusbands
By JULIEN MERCED C. MATABUENA - Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines – Members of the Philippine Azkals team expressed words of comfort through Twitter for their teammates Phil and James Younghusband, whose mother recently passed away due to a heart attack.
On Sunday, Sept. 11, Jason Sabio wrote, “Cherish life and your loved ones. Celebrate one's life rather than mourn their death. Thoughts prayers and blessings to my dearest brothers.”
He followed this tweet with, “With every death, a choice is thrusted upon us. Choose to celebrate the life that has passed and cherish your own. God Bless Tita Susan...”
Anton del Rosario, meanwhile, also shared words of sympathy to the Younghusbands, “Anything you guys need, the team and I got you... You guys are family… @JYH7 @PhilYHusband Thoughts and prayers go out to the both of you,” said he.
“so sad to hear about their loss. everyone around u guys are there for u. much love to phil & james our thoughts are with u right now,” Simon Greatwich posted. On Saturday, he addressed Phil and James, saying, “thinking of you both :(“
Nate Burkey tweeted also on Saturday, "Thoughts and deep prayers for @PhilYHusband @JYH7 are needed. Blessings!"
On Sunday, former Azkals coach Simon McMenemy posted, "@PhilYHusband @JYH7 tough to find the words. Sending love and support from Sarah and I."
Quoting a text message from Phil and James’ manager Cathy Rivilla, a story on gmanews.tv, reported on Sunday, that Mrs. Susan Younghusband “died of a massive heart attack around 10:30 p.m.” the previous evening.
On Sunday, “Balitanghali” quoted the Younghusband family’s business partner Jojo Durian as saying that her death came as a surprise because she isn’t afflicted with any illness that they know of.
The same newscast related that according to Jojo, Mrs. Younghusband was supposed to have a massage due to back pain when she had the heart attack. She was immediately rushed to the hospital, but this proved too late. She was 49.
On Sunday morning, Phil and James immediately flew back to Manila from Bacolod where the team held their training over the weekend. In the meantime, the family declined any request for interview by the media, asking that they be given time to mourn their loss in private.
The remains of Mrs. Younghusband are reportedly interred at the Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, Parañaque. She is survived by her three children namely Phil, James and younger sister Keri.
Aside from members of the Azkals team such as Anton, Jason and team captain Aly Borromeo, “Unang Hirit” reported that model Bubbles Paraiso and actress Angel Locsin already went to the wake on Sunday evening.
"Just came the wake of tita Susan... Big hugs to @JYH7 and @PhilYHusband..." Bubbles tweeted.
With the death of their mother, “Balitanghali” noted that the younger Younghusbands are now orphans as their British father, the late Philip Younghusband Sr., already passed away years ago.
MANILA, Philippines – Members of the Philippine Azkals team expressed words of comfort through Twitter for their teammates Phil and James Younghusband, whose mother recently passed away due to a heart attack.
On Sunday, Sept. 11, Jason Sabio wrote, “Cherish life and your loved ones. Celebrate one's life rather than mourn their death. Thoughts prayers and blessings to my dearest brothers.”
He followed this tweet with, “With every death, a choice is thrusted upon us. Choose to celebrate the life that has passed and cherish your own. God Bless Tita Susan...”
Anton del Rosario, meanwhile, also shared words of sympathy to the Younghusbands, “Anything you guys need, the team and I got you... You guys are family… @JYH7 @PhilYHusband Thoughts and prayers go out to the both of you,” said he.
“so sad to hear about their loss. everyone around u guys are there for u. much love to phil & james our thoughts are with u right now,” Simon Greatwich posted. On Saturday, he addressed Phil and James, saying, “thinking of you both :(“
Nate Burkey tweeted also on Saturday, "Thoughts and deep prayers for @PhilYHusband @JYH7 are needed. Blessings!"
On Sunday, former Azkals coach Simon McMenemy posted, "@PhilYHusband @JYH7 tough to find the words. Sending love and support from Sarah and I."
Quoting a text message from Phil and James’ manager Cathy Rivilla, a story on gmanews.tv, reported on Sunday, that Mrs. Susan Younghusband “died of a massive heart attack around 10:30 p.m.” the previous evening.
On Sunday, “Balitanghali” quoted the Younghusband family’s business partner Jojo Durian as saying that her death came as a surprise because she isn’t afflicted with any illness that they know of.
The same newscast related that according to Jojo, Mrs. Younghusband was supposed to have a massage due to back pain when she had the heart attack. She was immediately rushed to the hospital, but this proved too late. She was 49.
On Sunday morning, Phil and James immediately flew back to Manila from Bacolod where the team held their training over the weekend. In the meantime, the family declined any request for interview by the media, asking that they be given time to mourn their loss in private.
The remains of Mrs. Younghusband are reportedly interred at the Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, Parañaque. She is survived by her three children namely Phil, James and younger sister Keri.
Aside from members of the Azkals team such as Anton, Jason and team captain Aly Borromeo, “Unang Hirit” reported that model Bubbles Paraiso and actress Angel Locsin already went to the wake on Sunday evening.
"Just came the wake of tita Susan... Big hugs to @JYH7 and @PhilYHusband..." Bubbles tweeted.
With the death of their mother, “Balitanghali” noted that the younger Younghusbands are now orphans as their British father, the late Philip Younghusband Sr., already passed away years ago.
Azkals win tune-up game in Bacolod
Malaya Business News
NATIONAL Under-23 team aspirant Mark Hartmann scored a hat trick to power the Azkals to a 3-1 win over Global FC in a tune-up match last Sunday at the Pana-ad Stadium in Bacolod City.
Hartmann, 19, a solidly-built 6-foot Fil-Brit midfielder, had two goals in the first half and one in the second for the nationals, who played without co-skippers Aly Borromeo and Chieffy Caligdong and the Younghusband brothers.
Ange Tressor Guiso scored Global’s lone marker from a spot kick.
Fellow national Under-23 hopefuls–defender Jerry Barbaso and goalie Paolo Pascual–played for Global, national team manager Dan Palami’s ballclub playing in the UFL.
Phil and James Younghusand, who arrived with the team last Thursday in Bacolod to prepare for its stint in the Long Teng Invitational Cup in Taiwan at the end of this month, returned to Manila last Sunday after their Filipina mom, Susan, died of a heart attack Saturday night. Her body lies in state at the Funeraria Paz in Sucat, Paranaque.
The Azkals’ next exhibition match will be today against Ceres-Bacolod, the reigning PFF-Suzuki Cup national under-23 champion.
NATIONAL Under-23 team aspirant Mark Hartmann scored a hat trick to power the Azkals to a 3-1 win over Global FC in a tune-up match last Sunday at the Pana-ad Stadium in Bacolod City.
Hartmann, 19, a solidly-built 6-foot Fil-Brit midfielder, had two goals in the first half and one in the second for the nationals, who played without co-skippers Aly Borromeo and Chieffy Caligdong and the Younghusband brothers.
Ange Tressor Guiso scored Global’s lone marker from a spot kick.
Fellow national Under-23 hopefuls–defender Jerry Barbaso and goalie Paolo Pascual–played for Global, national team manager Dan Palami’s ballclub playing in the UFL.
Phil and James Younghusand, who arrived with the team last Thursday in Bacolod to prepare for its stint in the Long Teng Invitational Cup in Taiwan at the end of this month, returned to Manila last Sunday after their Filipina mom, Susan, died of a heart attack Saturday night. Her body lies in state at the Funeraria Paz in Sucat, Paranaque.
The Azkals’ next exhibition match will be today against Ceres-Bacolod, the reigning PFF-Suzuki Cup national under-23 champion.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Azkals looking forward to playing Real Madrid
Peter Atencio - Manila Standard Today
FOOTBALL officials are upbeat of the possibility of Real Madrid making an appearance in the Philippines and playing a series of friendlies with the Azkals.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta said this yesterday after getting confirmation from Nepal and Singapore that their national teams are ready to play tuneup matches, with the Azkals.
“It would be great if Mr. (Manny) Pangilinan will be able to bring Real Madrid here in the Philippines. It’s going to be a first. Imagine, having one of the biggest football clubs in Europe and in the world coming here,” said Araneta.
Pangilinan earlier confirmed that exploratory talks are now going on with top officials of Real Madrid over the possibility of their basketball and football teams to come the Philippines.
Real Madrid is considered as one of the most successful clubs in Spain, having won 31 Liga title.
The team also owns 18 Spanish “Copa del Rey” Cups, eight Spanish Super Cups, a Copa Eva Duarte and a Copa de la Liga.
They also have a record of nine United Europe Football Association Champions Leagues, two UEFA Cups, a UEFA Super Cup crown and three Intercontinental Cups.
The team is bannered by Brazilian ace Cristiano Ronaldo, one of their highest-paid players, who has scored 69 goals out of the 64 appearances he made with the team.
Meanwhile, the Azkals are scheduled to have a friendly encounter with Nepal on Oct. 7, 7 p.m. at the Rizal Memorial football pitch.
Their friendly with Singapore will be on Oct. 11 in Singapore.
All-Nepal Football Association President Ganesh Thapa earlier informed Araneta that their national squad will face the Azkals when they tour the ASEAN region. On the other hand, Singapore FA president Winston Lee confirmed their tuneup with the Azkals with Araneta.
Nepal’s game will be part of the Azkals’ preparation for the South Asian Football Federation Championship, scheduled in December in India.
The Philippine Azkals, and the national under-23 team, are currently in Bacolod to play friendlies with school squads. They are getting ready to see action in the Southeast Asian Games.
President Thapa said that Nepal National team is all set to tour Philippines on Oct. 11, before going to Cambodia to take on Cambodia U-23 on Oct. 28.
FOOTBALL officials are upbeat of the possibility of Real Madrid making an appearance in the Philippines and playing a series of friendlies with the Azkals.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta said this yesterday after getting confirmation from Nepal and Singapore that their national teams are ready to play tuneup matches, with the Azkals.
“It would be great if Mr. (Manny) Pangilinan will be able to bring Real Madrid here in the Philippines. It’s going to be a first. Imagine, having one of the biggest football clubs in Europe and in the world coming here,” said Araneta.
Pangilinan earlier confirmed that exploratory talks are now going on with top officials of Real Madrid over the possibility of their basketball and football teams to come the Philippines.
Real Madrid is considered as one of the most successful clubs in Spain, having won 31 Liga title.
The team also owns 18 Spanish “Copa del Rey” Cups, eight Spanish Super Cups, a Copa Eva Duarte and a Copa de la Liga.
They also have a record of nine United Europe Football Association Champions Leagues, two UEFA Cups, a UEFA Super Cup crown and three Intercontinental Cups.
The team is bannered by Brazilian ace Cristiano Ronaldo, one of their highest-paid players, who has scored 69 goals out of the 64 appearances he made with the team.
Meanwhile, the Azkals are scheduled to have a friendly encounter with Nepal on Oct. 7, 7 p.m. at the Rizal Memorial football pitch.
Their friendly with Singapore will be on Oct. 11 in Singapore.
All-Nepal Football Association President Ganesh Thapa earlier informed Araneta that their national squad will face the Azkals when they tour the ASEAN region. On the other hand, Singapore FA president Winston Lee confirmed their tuneup with the Azkals with Araneta.
Nepal’s game will be part of the Azkals’ preparation for the South Asian Football Federation Championship, scheduled in December in India.
The Philippine Azkals, and the national under-23 team, are currently in Bacolod to play friendlies with school squads. They are getting ready to see action in the Southeast Asian Games.
President Thapa said that Nepal National team is all set to tour Philippines on Oct. 11, before going to Cambodia to take on Cambodia U-23 on Oct. 28.
Azkals-Nepal friendly match set
By FRANCIS SANTIAGO - Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines — With Filipino-European players coming over, a complete Philippine football team will play a higher-ranked Nepal side in a friendly night match next month at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Manila.
Philippine Football Federation chief Mariano “Nonong” Araneta Jr. said Nepal (136th in the world) has agreed to meet the Azkals (162nd) on Oct. 11 on the Filipinos’ turf as part of the South Asian nation’s preparation for the South
Asian Football Federation championship that begins in December.
“They have agreed to play here as they also plan to tour the ASEAN region for their preparation,” Araneta said of the Nepal team, which is expected to fly in the country on Oct. 9.
Araneta said the match is set at 7 p.m.
After the Philippines, Nepal will play the Cambodia Under-23 side on Oct. 28, according to report posted on www.goalnepal.com.
Before playing Nepal, the Azkals will collide with Singapore (129th) on Oct. 7 in another friendly match on the Lions’ turf, giving the Filipinos opportunity to gauge their level of competitiveness as they also prepare for the AFF-Suzuki Cup and AFC-
Challenge Cup next year, according to Araneta.
“We’re excited because we’re going to have a full line up during these times,” Araneta said referring to the Oct. 6-11 dates which was reserved by the International Football Federation (Fifa) for international friendly games.
During this period, professional clubs around the world allow their players to play for their national teams, allowing the likes of Europe-based Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock, Paul Mulders, Jerry Lucena and Dennis Cagara to join the Azkals.
The PFF had earlier invited Vietnam, Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Oman and Qatar to play the Azkals, but all declined.
MANILA, Philippines — With Filipino-European players coming over, a complete Philippine football team will play a higher-ranked Nepal side in a friendly night match next month at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Manila.
Philippine Football Federation chief Mariano “Nonong” Araneta Jr. said Nepal (136th in the world) has agreed to meet the Azkals (162nd) on Oct. 11 on the Filipinos’ turf as part of the South Asian nation’s preparation for the South
Asian Football Federation championship that begins in December.
“They have agreed to play here as they also plan to tour the ASEAN region for their preparation,” Araneta said of the Nepal team, which is expected to fly in the country on Oct. 9.
Araneta said the match is set at 7 p.m.
After the Philippines, Nepal will play the Cambodia Under-23 side on Oct. 28, according to report posted on www.goalnepal.com.
Before playing Nepal, the Azkals will collide with Singapore (129th) on Oct. 7 in another friendly match on the Lions’ turf, giving the Filipinos opportunity to gauge their level of competitiveness as they also prepare for the AFF-Suzuki Cup and AFC-
Challenge Cup next year, according to Araneta.
“We’re excited because we’re going to have a full line up during these times,” Araneta said referring to the Oct. 6-11 dates which was reserved by the International Football Federation (Fifa) for international friendly games.
During this period, professional clubs around the world allow their players to play for their national teams, allowing the likes of Europe-based Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock, Paul Mulders, Jerry Lucena and Dennis Cagara to join the Azkals.
The PFF had earlier invited Vietnam, Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Oman and Qatar to play the Azkals, but all declined.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Azkals battle Nepalese in friendly here, a first in more than a decade
By Cedelf P. Tupas - Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA—A Philippine football team expected to be at full-strength faces Nepal in an international friendly on October 11 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta Friday said Nepal has confirmed the date to battle the Azkals.
It will mark the first time in more than a decade that the country is hosting an international friendly match.
Although the Philippines has hosted tournaments like the AFC Challenge Cup and more recently, the World Cup Qualifiers, it has not staged a friendly match at home since the Philippines lost to Estonia, 0-1, in November 1997 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
With Nepal’s confirmation and Singapore also agreeing to host the Azkals on October 7 at the Jelan Basar Stadium, the national team will be in for a tough grind with five matches in 11 days.
The Azkals, currently in Bacolod for a week-long training camp, will play three games in the Long Teng Cup in Kaouhsiung starting September 30.
National team manager Dan Palami is relishing the latest challenge for the Azkals, who lost to Kuwait, 1-3, in the second round of World Cup Qualifying at the Rizal Memorial Stadium last July 28.
“It’s a daunting task, but I’ve always thought that the only way we can improve is by playing more international matches,” said Palami.
“The good thing now is we have a pool of players in the team and only five from the Long Teng Cup team will be called up for the Singapore and Nepal matches.”
Europe-based players Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock, Jerry Lucena, Manny Ott and Paul Mulders will be available for the friendlies since the dates of the matches fall on the international break.
Dennis Cagara has already indicated his interest in playing for the Azkals in the two matches, Palami said.
“Anytime we have a full squad is always a plus for us because our players are not available all the time,” Araneta said.
The Nepal match, Palami said, will give the Azkals a preview of what to expect in the AFC Challenge Cup next year in Kathmandu.
“It will be a good preview for us to see their playing style and since they are ranked higher than us, it will be a good indicator of how we are from their level,” said Palami.
Palami said the friendly against the Singapore will be a gauge on how both teams have gone since the Azkals held the Lions to a 1-1 draw in their run to the Suzuki Cup semifinals last year.
MANILA—A Philippine football team expected to be at full-strength faces Nepal in an international friendly on October 11 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta Friday said Nepal has confirmed the date to battle the Azkals.
It will mark the first time in more than a decade that the country is hosting an international friendly match.
Although the Philippines has hosted tournaments like the AFC Challenge Cup and more recently, the World Cup Qualifiers, it has not staged a friendly match at home since the Philippines lost to Estonia, 0-1, in November 1997 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
With Nepal’s confirmation and Singapore also agreeing to host the Azkals on October 7 at the Jelan Basar Stadium, the national team will be in for a tough grind with five matches in 11 days.
The Azkals, currently in Bacolod for a week-long training camp, will play three games in the Long Teng Cup in Kaouhsiung starting September 30.
National team manager Dan Palami is relishing the latest challenge for the Azkals, who lost to Kuwait, 1-3, in the second round of World Cup Qualifying at the Rizal Memorial Stadium last July 28.
“It’s a daunting task, but I’ve always thought that the only way we can improve is by playing more international matches,” said Palami.
“The good thing now is we have a pool of players in the team and only five from the Long Teng Cup team will be called up for the Singapore and Nepal matches.”
Europe-based players Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock, Jerry Lucena, Manny Ott and Paul Mulders will be available for the friendlies since the dates of the matches fall on the international break.
Dennis Cagara has already indicated his interest in playing for the Azkals in the two matches, Palami said.
“Anytime we have a full squad is always a plus for us because our players are not available all the time,” Araneta said.
The Nepal match, Palami said, will give the Azkals a preview of what to expect in the AFC Challenge Cup next year in Kathmandu.
“It will be a good preview for us to see their playing style and since they are ranked higher than us, it will be a good indicator of how we are from their level,” said Palami.
Palami said the friendly against the Singapore will be a gauge on how both teams have gone since the Azkals held the Lions to a 1-1 draw in their run to the Suzuki Cup semifinals last year.
Anton dispels Azkals rivalry with Volcanoes
By JULIEN MERCED C. MATABUENA - Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines – No competition exists between two of the most popular national teams, the soccer team Philippine Azkals and the rugby team Philippine Volcanoes.
“No, no, not at all,” Azkals striker Anton del Rosario was quoted as saying in an article posted on abs-cbnnews.com on Sept. 9. This is in response to the question whether the soccer and rugby teams are competing against each other for popularity.
Del Rosario said that does not think much about the public’s comments that the Volcanoes are more popular than his team these days.
“I'm not worried about it. People can think what they think. I mean we are all playing for the same country. People should not be comparing Philippine teams, I mean we are all playing for the same country, for the same reasons,” he stressed.
Both the Azkals and the Volcanoes currently enjoy tremendous popularity in the country due to winning in various competitions abroad.
After their unsuccessful bid at the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, the Azkals are currently gearing up for the Long Teng Cup slated from Sept. 26 to Oct. 4 in Taiwan, among other forthcoming games. The Volcanoes, on the other hand, has just come from a successful run at the recently concluded Asian 5 Nations Division 1 tournament in Korea. They are currently competing at the first leg of the Asian Men’s 7s Championships in Shanghai, China.
Due to these honors, both teams have been picked to endorse a number of popular local brands.
Del Rosario expressed that he has a “few friends in Volcanoes” and hoped that “they will keep it well and be successful.”
Del Rosario joined the Azkals in 2004 and plays center back.
MANILA, Philippines – No competition exists between two of the most popular national teams, the soccer team Philippine Azkals and the rugby team Philippine Volcanoes.
“No, no, not at all,” Azkals striker Anton del Rosario was quoted as saying in an article posted on abs-cbnnews.com on Sept. 9. This is in response to the question whether the soccer and rugby teams are competing against each other for popularity.
Del Rosario said that does not think much about the public’s comments that the Volcanoes are more popular than his team these days.
“I'm not worried about it. People can think what they think. I mean we are all playing for the same country. People should not be comparing Philippine teams, I mean we are all playing for the same country, for the same reasons,” he stressed.
Both the Azkals and the Volcanoes currently enjoy tremendous popularity in the country due to winning in various competitions abroad.
After their unsuccessful bid at the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, the Azkals are currently gearing up for the Long Teng Cup slated from Sept. 26 to Oct. 4 in Taiwan, among other forthcoming games. The Volcanoes, on the other hand, has just come from a successful run at the recently concluded Asian 5 Nations Division 1 tournament in Korea. They are currently competing at the first leg of the Asian Men’s 7s Championships in Shanghai, China.
Due to these honors, both teams have been picked to endorse a number of popular local brands.
Del Rosario expressed that he has a “few friends in Volcanoes” and hoped that “they will keep it well and be successful.”
Del Rosario joined the Azkals in 2004 and plays center back.
Azkals’ heartthrobs arrive
BY NIDA BUENAFE - The Visayan Daily Star
His face covered with a hood and a baseball cap and wearing large ear phones, Phil Younghusband smiled to the crowd, stopped for a brief media interview before joining his brother James in the Azkals bus after the Philippine Men’s Football Team Azkals arrived yesterday at the Bacolod-Silay Airport for a weeklong camp in Bacolod City.
With the Younghusband brothers are a couple of Fil-foreign faces, the latest recruits to the team, and Under 23 players who will start training for the Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia in November.
Both Phil and James said they are happy to be back in Bacolod and they are excited to share the experience with the recruits, who are setting foot in Negros for the first time.
Azkals’ coach Hans Michael Weiss said bringing the team to the provinces and having the locals witness them play has always been emphasized to the members of the team.
“We are happy to be here and I personally have good memories of Bacolod. Last time was my first time to be here and we had a good match against Mongolia,” Weiss said.
He remembered the very good accommodation they had and the “very friendly” people who supported the team during the game against Mongolia.
Weiss said the Azkals will hold camp in Bacolod in preparation for the coming big tournaments such as the four-nation Long Teng Cup in Taiwan later this month.
With the professional players like keeper Neil Etheridge and midfielder Stephan Schrock not able to join the Azkals, coach Weiss said the recruits have to come up to the ranks since the team need fresh blood.
But even without Etheridge, Weiss said the young team has a good perspective with the infusion of new players.
Ray Johnnson, Manuel de Ott, and Ray de Jong are also set to join the team this weekend in time with the friendly games against a team from Manila and the PFF Suzuki Cup Under 23 national champion Ceres – Negros Team.
Earlier, Gov. Alfredo Maranon said he is happy to have the Azkals back in the province and the public can watch the friendly games at the Panaad for free.
The governor said the game between the national team and the Ceres – Negros squad on September 13 at 5:30 p.m. will be a good match to watch.
His face covered with a hood and a baseball cap and wearing large ear phones, Phil Younghusband smiled to the crowd, stopped for a brief media interview before joining his brother James in the Azkals bus after the Philippine Men’s Football Team Azkals arrived yesterday at the Bacolod-Silay Airport for a weeklong camp in Bacolod City.
With the Younghusband brothers are a couple of Fil-foreign faces, the latest recruits to the team, and Under 23 players who will start training for the Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia in November.
Both Phil and James said they are happy to be back in Bacolod and they are excited to share the experience with the recruits, who are setting foot in Negros for the first time.
Azkals’ coach Hans Michael Weiss said bringing the team to the provinces and having the locals witness them play has always been emphasized to the members of the team.
“We are happy to be here and I personally have good memories of Bacolod. Last time was my first time to be here and we had a good match against Mongolia,” Weiss said.
He remembered the very good accommodation they had and the “very friendly” people who supported the team during the game against Mongolia.
Weiss said the Azkals will hold camp in Bacolod in preparation for the coming big tournaments such as the four-nation Long Teng Cup in Taiwan later this month.
With the professional players like keeper Neil Etheridge and midfielder Stephan Schrock not able to join the Azkals, coach Weiss said the recruits have to come up to the ranks since the team need fresh blood.
But even without Etheridge, Weiss said the young team has a good perspective with the infusion of new players.
Ray Johnnson, Manuel de Ott, and Ray de Jong are also set to join the team this weekend in time with the friendly games against a team from Manila and the PFF Suzuki Cup Under 23 national champion Ceres – Negros Team.
Earlier, Gov. Alfredo Maranon said he is happy to have the Azkals back in the province and the public can watch the friendly games at the Panaad for free.
The governor said the game between the national team and the Ceres – Negros squad on September 13 at 5:30 p.m. will be a good match to watch.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Football from Chelsea to Manila, via PlayStation
By Aidan Jones (AFP)
MANILA — With boy band good looks, a tutelage at Chelsea and a large dose of luck -- courtesy of a computer game -- two British-born brothers are stirring an unlikely football fever in the Philippines.
The beautiful game has for the first time pinched some of the limelight from basketball, the nation's favourite sport.
With their potent mix of skill and celebrity the national team, nicknamed the Azkals (street dogs), have wooed patriotic Filipinos through a series of gutsy World Cup pre-qualifying games.
At the centre of Azkal-mania are the half-Filipino Younghusband brothers, 24-year-old Phil, a fleet-footed striker, and his brother James, 25, a rangy central midfielder.
Their giddy rise from the fringes of the Jose Mourinho's Chelsea team to the heart of a national side on the other side of the world owes a lot to an improbable source -- PlayStation's popular Championship Manager game.
A young gamer researching players is credited with spotting the pair, who have a Philippine mother.
"The story goes that the kid told the PFF (Philippines Football Federation) we were Filipinos playing for Chelsea," says Phil, who reached the Premier League giants' first team while his brother was a reserve.
Desperate to inject top-level overseas experience into a lacklustre national side, the PFF approached Chelsea about the Younghusbands' eligibility.
"Our manager came to us and asked if we were interested in playing for the Philippines and since we came home regularly anyway, we tried out and joined the national team in 2005," Phil explains.
The move is looking increasingly shrewd, both on and off the pitch.
The Younghusbands have quickly become A-list stars across the island archipelago, drawing a legion of adoring fans -- most of them women.
Their faces adorn billboards plugging everything from mobile phones to canned tuna, while local actresses and models routinely declare their affection for the pair in gossip magazines.
Football is also on the up, and while it may never challenge basketball's status, the pair are confident their adopted country has enough passion for the sport to justify the establishment of a domestic professional league.
"It took eight years for the J-League of Japan to get where it is today. Hopefully it can take half that amount here," said James.
A professional league would also help wean the national side off its dependency on stars born or based overseas.
Nearly half of the current 23-man squad play abroad, including in the US, Spain, Germany and Iceland.
A glance at a team sheet including the Younghusbands, goalkeeper Neil Etheridge and defenders Robert Gier and Stephan Schrock also reveals the number of mixed-race players wearing the national shirt.
Despite the brothers' faith in the Philippine game, the obstacles ahead are daunting.
The Azkals are ranked a humble 162nd by FIFA, the homegrown talent pool is narrow -- many Filipinos still see football as an elite sport -- while facilities and financing are patchy.
The Philippines does not have an astroturf training pitch and it was a mad scramble to widen stands for the 13,000 crowd who flocked to Manila's national stadium for a recent World Cup pre-qualifying match against Sri Lanka.
On the day, rain cascaded down the stairwells of the only covered stand as the Azkals hammered the hapless visitors 4-0.
Outside, a platoon of touts and hawkers competed with the roar of jeepneys and motorbikes to sell tickets and Azkals paraphernalia.
The Younghusbands, who played with Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba, say the match was further evidence that Filipinos are warming to football, if only because their diminutive frames are better suited to mazy dribbles then slam dunks.
And the signs so far are promising. Although the national team was knocked out of World Cup contention by Kuwait, Azkal-fever has not waned.
With tournaments in Taiwan and Indonesia ahead and the interest in the side widening to include, among others, Etheridge (a Fulham FC reserve), the Philippines are no longer content to play whipping boys to regional giants such as Japan, South Korea and China.
Keen to continue the momentum, the Younghusbands have established a football academy, hunting new homegrown talent and raising the profile of the game.
"We can't play football forever and the only way to be in football is to share our knowledge and experience with our fellow Filipinos," said James.
Team manager Dan Palami says the country is fertile ground for the sport and is aiming for a strong qualifying run for the 2018 Russia World Cup.
But he strikes a note of caution over the current Azkals frenzy.
"Filipinos can be fickle, they will love us while we win, but will they be with us if we stop improving?" he says.
Outside Manila's ramshackle Rizal national stadium, fans who watched the demolition of Sri Lanka were adamant the love affair with football is more than just a fling.
Wearing 'Go Azkals!' T-shirts and with the Philippine tricolore daubed on their faces, sisters Abigal and Christine Carbero said football will only get bigger.
"Yes, Phil and James are very handsome," 27-year-old Christine said. "But it's more than that. The rest of the world plays football, why can't we?"
MANILA — With boy band good looks, a tutelage at Chelsea and a large dose of luck -- courtesy of a computer game -- two British-born brothers are stirring an unlikely football fever in the Philippines.
The beautiful game has for the first time pinched some of the limelight from basketball, the nation's favourite sport.
With their potent mix of skill and celebrity the national team, nicknamed the Azkals (street dogs), have wooed patriotic Filipinos through a series of gutsy World Cup pre-qualifying games.
At the centre of Azkal-mania are the half-Filipino Younghusband brothers, 24-year-old Phil, a fleet-footed striker, and his brother James, 25, a rangy central midfielder.
Their giddy rise from the fringes of the Jose Mourinho's Chelsea team to the heart of a national side on the other side of the world owes a lot to an improbable source -- PlayStation's popular Championship Manager game.
A young gamer researching players is credited with spotting the pair, who have a Philippine mother.
"The story goes that the kid told the PFF (Philippines Football Federation) we were Filipinos playing for Chelsea," says Phil, who reached the Premier League giants' first team while his brother was a reserve.
Desperate to inject top-level overseas experience into a lacklustre national side, the PFF approached Chelsea about the Younghusbands' eligibility.
"Our manager came to us and asked if we were interested in playing for the Philippines and since we came home regularly anyway, we tried out and joined the national team in 2005," Phil explains.
The move is looking increasingly shrewd, both on and off the pitch.
The Younghusbands have quickly become A-list stars across the island archipelago, drawing a legion of adoring fans -- most of them women.
Their faces adorn billboards plugging everything from mobile phones to canned tuna, while local actresses and models routinely declare their affection for the pair in gossip magazines.
Football is also on the up, and while it may never challenge basketball's status, the pair are confident their adopted country has enough passion for the sport to justify the establishment of a domestic professional league.
"It took eight years for the J-League of Japan to get where it is today. Hopefully it can take half that amount here," said James.
A professional league would also help wean the national side off its dependency on stars born or based overseas.
Nearly half of the current 23-man squad play abroad, including in the US, Spain, Germany and Iceland.
A glance at a team sheet including the Younghusbands, goalkeeper Neil Etheridge and defenders Robert Gier and Stephan Schrock also reveals the number of mixed-race players wearing the national shirt.
Despite the brothers' faith in the Philippine game, the obstacles ahead are daunting.
The Azkals are ranked a humble 162nd by FIFA, the homegrown talent pool is narrow -- many Filipinos still see football as an elite sport -- while facilities and financing are patchy.
The Philippines does not have an astroturf training pitch and it was a mad scramble to widen stands for the 13,000 crowd who flocked to Manila's national stadium for a recent World Cup pre-qualifying match against Sri Lanka.
On the day, rain cascaded down the stairwells of the only covered stand as the Azkals hammered the hapless visitors 4-0.
Outside, a platoon of touts and hawkers competed with the roar of jeepneys and motorbikes to sell tickets and Azkals paraphernalia.
The Younghusbands, who played with Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba, say the match was further evidence that Filipinos are warming to football, if only because their diminutive frames are better suited to mazy dribbles then slam dunks.
And the signs so far are promising. Although the national team was knocked out of World Cup contention by Kuwait, Azkal-fever has not waned.
With tournaments in Taiwan and Indonesia ahead and the interest in the side widening to include, among others, Etheridge (a Fulham FC reserve), the Philippines are no longer content to play whipping boys to regional giants such as Japan, South Korea and China.
Keen to continue the momentum, the Younghusbands have established a football academy, hunting new homegrown talent and raising the profile of the game.
"We can't play football forever and the only way to be in football is to share our knowledge and experience with our fellow Filipinos," said James.
Team manager Dan Palami says the country is fertile ground for the sport and is aiming for a strong qualifying run for the 2018 Russia World Cup.
But he strikes a note of caution over the current Azkals frenzy.
"Filipinos can be fickle, they will love us while we win, but will they be with us if we stop improving?" he says.
Outside Manila's ramshackle Rizal national stadium, fans who watched the demolition of Sri Lanka were adamant the love affair with football is more than just a fling.
Wearing 'Go Azkals!' T-shirts and with the Philippine tricolore daubed on their faces, sisters Abigal and Christine Carbero said football will only get bigger.
"Yes, Phil and James are very handsome," 27-year-old Christine said. "But it's more than that. The rest of the world plays football, why can't we?"
Azkals new Fil-foreign recruits to play in Panaad friendly games
From The Visayan Daily Star
Neil Etheridge will not be around to renew his acquaintance with the Negrenses when the Azkals arrive tomorrow, but the Philippine Men’s Football Team will introduce to the public Filipino-German Roland Mueller, a second choice keeper in Germany’s football club MSV Duisburg.
With Mueller is Fil-Spanish defender Carlie Olai-Var De Murga, who will also suit for the Azkals as they play against PFF Suzuki Cup Under 23 national champions Ceres – Negros Team at the Panaad pitch on September 13 at 5:30 p.m.
The Azkals are also scheduled to play against the Korean-reinforced Central Philippine University squad from Iloilo City on Friday, and against a team from Manila on September 11.
The friendly games will help the national team prepare for the Long Four-Nation Long Teng Cup set in Taiwan on September 30 to October 4.
The 23-year-old Mueller is touted to be the perfect stand in keeper for Etheridge, while De Murga, 22, will bring in the skills that earned him a spot in the Racing Club Portuense that is competing in the Spanish 3rd division.
But while the Azkals are expected to be coming out strong in the friendly matches, the local teams will be giving them a good fight, Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon said.
To allow Negrenses the chance to see the Azkals play at the Panaad once again, the governor instructed the Provincial Sports Office to waive all charges for the spectators during the games.
Choice seats, however, will be reserved for officials and sponsors, Marañon said.
Meanwhile, Homeless World Cup Philippine Team skipper Negrense Janrick Soriano will be joining the Ceres - Negros Team when they play against the Azkals on September 13.
Aside from Soriano, Ceres-Negros Team head coach Norman Fegidero said the team will have Lemuel Unabia and Jake Morallo in the lineup.
As for the September 8- 15 Azkals camp, PFF U23 Team Coordinator Jojie Ronda said the tryout will be exclusive those who wish to join the men’s team and the national U23 team squad.
The PFF has issued invitations to Ceres-Negros Team’s Joshua Beloya, Aldrin Dolino and Jovin Bedic to join the tryouts, Ronda said.
Neil Etheridge will not be around to renew his acquaintance with the Negrenses when the Azkals arrive tomorrow, but the Philippine Men’s Football Team will introduce to the public Filipino-German Roland Mueller, a second choice keeper in Germany’s football club MSV Duisburg.
With Mueller is Fil-Spanish defender Carlie Olai-Var De Murga, who will also suit for the Azkals as they play against PFF Suzuki Cup Under 23 national champions Ceres – Negros Team at the Panaad pitch on September 13 at 5:30 p.m.
The Azkals are also scheduled to play against the Korean-reinforced Central Philippine University squad from Iloilo City on Friday, and against a team from Manila on September 11.
The friendly games will help the national team prepare for the Long Four-Nation Long Teng Cup set in Taiwan on September 30 to October 4.
The 23-year-old Mueller is touted to be the perfect stand in keeper for Etheridge, while De Murga, 22, will bring in the skills that earned him a spot in the Racing Club Portuense that is competing in the Spanish 3rd division.
But while the Azkals are expected to be coming out strong in the friendly matches, the local teams will be giving them a good fight, Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon said.
To allow Negrenses the chance to see the Azkals play at the Panaad once again, the governor instructed the Provincial Sports Office to waive all charges for the spectators during the games.
Choice seats, however, will be reserved for officials and sponsors, Marañon said.
Meanwhile, Homeless World Cup Philippine Team skipper Negrense Janrick Soriano will be joining the Ceres - Negros Team when they play against the Azkals on September 13.
Aside from Soriano, Ceres-Negros Team head coach Norman Fegidero said the team will have Lemuel Unabia and Jake Morallo in the lineup.
As for the September 8- 15 Azkals camp, PFF U23 Team Coordinator Jojie Ronda said the tryout will be exclusive those who wish to join the men’s team and the national U23 team squad.
The PFF has issued invitations to Ceres-Negros Team’s Joshua Beloya, Aldrin Dolino and Jovin Bedic to join the tryouts, Ronda said.
Azkals support Church’s one million tree project
By Social Communication Commission, Don Bosco Provincial House - Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines - One Million Trees, a project to help conserve the environment, was recently endorsed by Chieffy Caligdong and Roel Gener of the Philippine Azkals football team.
The national team mainstays urged the youth to take part in a simultaneous, nationwide planting on September 8, 2011, which coincides with the feast of the birth of the Virgin Mary, an important event for Catholics.
Caligdong and Gener, seen on videos in the Salesians of Don Bosco website (http://fin.sdb.ph) and Youtube, called on the youth to join the tree-planting drive by first logging on to Facebook and liking the page “1 million trees (CBCP Year of the Youth)”. Participants will get event updates on their Facebook walls.
The One Million Trees project is part of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) Year of the Youth celebration which ends on December 16, 2011.
Representatives from various dioceses, religious organizations and government agencies will plant 49,920 seedlings nationwide on September 8.
Participants include the Archdioceses of Jaro and Cagayan de Oro; Dioceses of Balanga, San Jose, Nueva Ecija, Bangued, Borongan, Laoag, Iligan, Urdaneta, Surigao, Malaybalay and Cabanatuan; Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, a parish in Danao City, Cebu, and the organizations CFC-Singles for Christ (SFC) and the National Youth Commission (NYC).
The project is a response to Pope Benedict XVI’s call to use the earth’s resources wisely and to respect the environment.
In Pope Benedict’s message on January 1 last year for the celebration of the World Day of Peace, he says, “The Church has a responsibility towards creation, and she considers it her duty to exercise that responsibility in public life, in order to protect earth, water and air as gifts of God the Creator meant for everyone, and above all to save mankind from the danger of self-destruction.”
The Azkals, Filipino slang for street dogs, became very popular after the team won different international tournaments and reached the second round of the World Cup qualifiers for the first time.
The Azkals can be seen in tv, print and billboard ads.Their popularity has brought unprecedented interest in football in a country long dominated by basketball.
MANILA, Philippines - One Million Trees, a project to help conserve the environment, was recently endorsed by Chieffy Caligdong and Roel Gener of the Philippine Azkals football team.
The national team mainstays urged the youth to take part in a simultaneous, nationwide planting on September 8, 2011, which coincides with the feast of the birth of the Virgin Mary, an important event for Catholics.
Caligdong and Gener, seen on videos in the Salesians of Don Bosco website (http://fin.sdb.ph) and Youtube, called on the youth to join the tree-planting drive by first logging on to Facebook and liking the page “1 million trees (CBCP Year of the Youth)”. Participants will get event updates on their Facebook walls.
The One Million Trees project is part of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) Year of the Youth celebration which ends on December 16, 2011.
Representatives from various dioceses, religious organizations and government agencies will plant 49,920 seedlings nationwide on September 8.
Participants include the Archdioceses of Jaro and Cagayan de Oro; Dioceses of Balanga, San Jose, Nueva Ecija, Bangued, Borongan, Laoag, Iligan, Urdaneta, Surigao, Malaybalay and Cabanatuan; Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, a parish in Danao City, Cebu, and the organizations CFC-Singles for Christ (SFC) and the National Youth Commission (NYC).
The project is a response to Pope Benedict XVI’s call to use the earth’s resources wisely and to respect the environment.
In Pope Benedict’s message on January 1 last year for the celebration of the World Day of Peace, he says, “The Church has a responsibility towards creation, and she considers it her duty to exercise that responsibility in public life, in order to protect earth, water and air as gifts of God the Creator meant for everyone, and above all to save mankind from the danger of self-destruction.”
The Azkals, Filipino slang for street dogs, became very popular after the team won different international tournaments and reached the second round of the World Cup qualifiers for the first time.
The Azkals can be seen in tv, print and billboard ads.Their popularity has brought unprecedented interest in football in a country long dominated by basketball.
Full-bodied Azkals play S'poreans in friendly
By Olmin Leyba (The Philippine Star)
MANILA, Philippines - A Philippine Azkals side that will parade a full complement will play higher-ranked Singapore in a Fifa friendly match next month.
Philippine Football Federation president Nonong Araneta said Singapore (129th in the world) has agreed to meet the Azkals (162nd) on Oct. 7 at the Lions’ turf, giving the Pinoys a chance to test their skills and possibly improve their world ranking.
“Singapore has agreed to do a friendly but instead of having it here, they want it held in Singapore since they have a scheduled Fifa World Cup Asian Qualifiers third round game on Oct. 11,” Araneta said of Singapore’s positive response to the PFF’s invitation.
“We at the PFF and Azkals coach Michael Weiss are both okay with it so we’ll finalize the arrangement with the Football Association of Singapore,” he added.
The PFF has invited higher-ranked countries like Singapore, Oman, Qatar, and Bangladesh, to play the Azkals anytime from Oct. 6-11, the period designated as “Fifa match calendar days.”
During those dates, clubs all over the world will release players to their respective national teams, allowing the likes of Europe-based Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock, Paul Mulders, Jerry Lucena and Dennis Cagara to join the Azkals.
“All the players based in Europe will be available, so we’re excited to see the full squad play against a higher ranked team like Singapore,” said Araneta.
Pakistan, ranked 170th, has offered to come over to Manila to tangle with the Azkals on Oct. 9.
“It will be up to Weiss and team management if they would want to play Pakistan after the friendly with Singapore,” Araneta said.
The Azkals are back in training after bowing out of the World Cup Asian preliminaries. They are set to hold camp in Bacolod City this week before competing at the Long Teng Cup in Chinese-Taipei from Sept. 30 to Oct. 4.
MANILA, Philippines - A Philippine Azkals side that will parade a full complement will play higher-ranked Singapore in a Fifa friendly match next month.
Philippine Football Federation president Nonong Araneta said Singapore (129th in the world) has agreed to meet the Azkals (162nd) on Oct. 7 at the Lions’ turf, giving the Pinoys a chance to test their skills and possibly improve their world ranking.
“Singapore has agreed to do a friendly but instead of having it here, they want it held in Singapore since they have a scheduled Fifa World Cup Asian Qualifiers third round game on Oct. 11,” Araneta said of Singapore’s positive response to the PFF’s invitation.
“We at the PFF and Azkals coach Michael Weiss are both okay with it so we’ll finalize the arrangement with the Football Association of Singapore,” he added.
The PFF has invited higher-ranked countries like Singapore, Oman, Qatar, and Bangladesh, to play the Azkals anytime from Oct. 6-11, the period designated as “Fifa match calendar days.”
During those dates, clubs all over the world will release players to their respective national teams, allowing the likes of Europe-based Neil Etheridge, Stephan Schrock, Paul Mulders, Jerry Lucena and Dennis Cagara to join the Azkals.
“All the players based in Europe will be available, so we’re excited to see the full squad play against a higher ranked team like Singapore,” said Araneta.
Pakistan, ranked 170th, has offered to come over to Manila to tangle with the Azkals on Oct. 9.
“It will be up to Weiss and team management if they would want to play Pakistan after the friendly with Singapore,” Araneta said.
The Azkals are back in training after bowing out of the World Cup Asian preliminaries. They are set to hold camp in Bacolod City this week before competing at the Long Teng Cup in Chinese-Taipei from Sept. 30 to Oct. 4.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Fil-Spanish joins Azkals
Peter Atencio - Manila Standard Today
ANOTHER Fil-Spanish player joined the Philippine Azkals national football team when they resume practice Monday.
National team manager Dan Palami on Sunday confirmed that 22-year-old Carlos Alberto Martínez de Murga Olaivar will be around when the Azkals do their daily workouts at the Alabang Country Club pitch and at the Rizal Memorial football grounds.
The Azkals are preparing for the Long Teng Cup in Taiwan next month.
Olaivar is a right back, who plays for Tercera Racing Club Portuense in Spain. The club plays in the fourth level of the Spanish league system.
His presence here comes at a time when Fil-Spanish striker Angel Guirado takes a rest from his injuries.
He is one of two new faces in the team, the other being Roland Mueller, a Fil-German goalie, who plays for MSV Duisburg in the second division Bundesliga, was recently accepted by the Azkals.
Meanwhile, private funds will be used to renovate the football pitch at the Philsports Complex in Pasig City.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta said this after the PFF signed a long-term agreement with the Philippine Sports Commission last Wednesday.
Funds amounting to $500,000 (around P21.7 million) will be used to set up a brand new artificial pitch at the Philsports complex, according to an agreement Araneta signed with PSC chairman Richie Garcia.
Peter Atencio
The money will come from international soccer body FIFA’s Goal 2 Project, which will course the funding through the PFF.
Under the new agreement, funding will be provided for the next 25 years to keep the Philsports turf in top condition, under the management of the PFF.
The facelifting of the 10,000-seat facility will give the PFF’s numerous national teams a chance to practice at any given time.
ANOTHER Fil-Spanish player joined the Philippine Azkals national football team when they resume practice Monday.
National team manager Dan Palami on Sunday confirmed that 22-year-old Carlos Alberto Martínez de Murga Olaivar will be around when the Azkals do their daily workouts at the Alabang Country Club pitch and at the Rizal Memorial football grounds.
The Azkals are preparing for the Long Teng Cup in Taiwan next month.
Olaivar is a right back, who plays for Tercera Racing Club Portuense in Spain. The club plays in the fourth level of the Spanish league system.
His presence here comes at a time when Fil-Spanish striker Angel Guirado takes a rest from his injuries.
He is one of two new faces in the team, the other being Roland Mueller, a Fil-German goalie, who plays for MSV Duisburg in the second division Bundesliga, was recently accepted by the Azkals.
Meanwhile, private funds will be used to renovate the football pitch at the Philsports Complex in Pasig City.
Philippine Football Federation president Mariano “Nonong” Araneta said this after the PFF signed a long-term agreement with the Philippine Sports Commission last Wednesday.
Funds amounting to $500,000 (around P21.7 million) will be used to set up a brand new artificial pitch at the Philsports complex, according to an agreement Araneta signed with PSC chairman Richie Garcia.
Peter Atencio
The money will come from international soccer body FIFA’s Goal 2 Project, which will course the funding through the PFF.
Under the new agreement, funding will be provided for the next 25 years to keep the Philsports turf in top condition, under the management of the PFF.
The facelifting of the 10,000-seat facility will give the PFF’s numerous national teams a chance to practice at any given time.
Marañon waives tickets to Azkals’ friendly game
The Visayan Dail Star
Governor Alfredo Marañon wants the football match between the Philippine Azkals and the Ceres – Negros at the Panaad Stadium on September 13 open to the public and free of charge, Executive Assistant to the Governor for Sports Angel Verdeflor said yesterday.
He said they have to set aside their plans to charge P200, P100, and P50 for tickets to allow the public to watch the Azkals play for free.
While some of the Fil-foreign players will not be able to join the team in Bacolod City from September 8 to 15, Verdeflor said James and Phil Younghusbands will be part of the group.
It will be a good match as the Ceres – Negros First Under 23 squad has proven its strength against the best in the country during the Suzuki national championships in summer, Verdeflor said.
He added that the Negrense team will be a good match to the Azkals as they get ready for their stint in Taiwan later this month for the four-nation Long Teng Cup.
The Azkals will arrive on Thursday and will play against the Korean-reinforcedCentral Philippine University of Iloilo City the next day and against Global Manila on September 11.
Governor Alfredo Marañon wants the football match between the Philippine Azkals and the Ceres – Negros at the Panaad Stadium on September 13 open to the public and free of charge, Executive Assistant to the Governor for Sports Angel Verdeflor said yesterday.
He said they have to set aside their plans to charge P200, P100, and P50 for tickets to allow the public to watch the Azkals play for free.
While some of the Fil-foreign players will not be able to join the team in Bacolod City from September 8 to 15, Verdeflor said James and Phil Younghusbands will be part of the group.
It will be a good match as the Ceres – Negros First Under 23 squad has proven its strength against the best in the country during the Suzuki national championships in summer, Verdeflor said.
He added that the Negrense team will be a good match to the Azkals as they get ready for their stint in Taiwan later this month for the four-nation Long Teng Cup.
The Azkals will arrive on Thursday and will play against the Korean-reinforcedCentral Philippine University of Iloilo City the next day and against Global Manila on September 11.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Azkals team ready for Long Teng Cup
(MLSA)Published in the Sun.Star Davao newspaper
THE Team Azkals, bannered by Philippines national football senior players, are all set to compete in the Long Teng Cup slated September 26 to October 4 in Taiwan.
Azkals coordinator Ace Bright, in a press conference hosted by Pharma-Rex Inc. with Cortal SQR at The Marco Polo yesterday, said the team will hold camp in Bacolod City on Sept. 8 to 15 as part of their preparations for the upcoming event.
The team will play three exhibition games including a match against Global FC on Sept. 9 and Central Philippine University on Sept. 11. Another friendly game is set on Sept. 13.
"We hope that the Bacolod camp and the series of exhibition matches will help the Azkals' stint in Taiwan as they will be pitted against strong teams like Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei," Bright said.
The Azkals' clash against Hong Kong will be on Sept. 30 while their encounter against Chinese Taipei will be on Oct. 2.
Macau will be their next assignment on Oct. 4 in the single round-robin format bootfest.
Iloilo native Rogel Gener, for his part, said they have started rigid training under the close watch of German coach Michael Weiss.
The 37-year-old Gener added in the vernacular, "We expect hard training when we start our camp in Bacolod although we have already been training mornings and afternoons every day. Coach would want us to be ready for the Long Teng Cup."
Left winger Yannick Tuazon, right winger Misagh Bahadoran and defender Nestor Margarce joined Gener in the panel along with Pharma-Rex Inc. marketing manager Victor Oliveros.
Tuazon, who has roots in Tagum City, said they are taking one game at a time after failing in their bid in the World Cup qualifier.
"We believe in the sport of football. We believe that we can excel in it. Davao, being one of the biggest cities, has lots of open fields where kids can play football," Tuazon said.
Of the 25 Azkals mainstays, Gener said Tuazon is the only one qualified to play in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games where the football event requires participation of under 23 years old players only.
Margarce, in an interview, said only five pure-blooded Filipinos are in the team that's why they feel the pressure of living up to expectations and play in the best of their abilities.
Bahadoran admitted that the country does not have to hire Fil-foreign players to form a champion team.
He said, "We need to get younger players. In football, players need to start young say age seven or 10 or even younger. We can't always rely on Fil-foreign players to play for the country.
Our team manager Dan Palami is starting to promote the sport in the grassroots level and that's the best way to start forming a champion team."
Oliveros said Azkals and Cortal SQR share the same challenging beginnings as their product also battle `giants' in the pharmaceutical industry.
"In a country where people are huge fans of basketball and boxing, football is also gaining popularity through the Azkals. We believe that it is in football where we can excel and compete against the great teams in Asia. It is our aim that Cortal SQR will be a household name just like the Azkals," Oliveros said.
He also said that the best football players in the country may soon come from Davao where the sport has already been established several years ago.
The four Azkals, meanwhile, thanked Cortal SQR for giving them relief from pain during practices and actual games.
THE Team Azkals, bannered by Philippines national football senior players, are all set to compete in the Long Teng Cup slated September 26 to October 4 in Taiwan.
Azkals coordinator Ace Bright, in a press conference hosted by Pharma-Rex Inc. with Cortal SQR at The Marco Polo yesterday, said the team will hold camp in Bacolod City on Sept. 8 to 15 as part of their preparations for the upcoming event.
The team will play three exhibition games including a match against Global FC on Sept. 9 and Central Philippine University on Sept. 11. Another friendly game is set on Sept. 13.
"We hope that the Bacolod camp and the series of exhibition matches will help the Azkals' stint in Taiwan as they will be pitted against strong teams like Hong Kong and Chinese Taipei," Bright said.
The Azkals' clash against Hong Kong will be on Sept. 30 while their encounter against Chinese Taipei will be on Oct. 2.
Macau will be their next assignment on Oct. 4 in the single round-robin format bootfest.
Iloilo native Rogel Gener, for his part, said they have started rigid training under the close watch of German coach Michael Weiss.
The 37-year-old Gener added in the vernacular, "We expect hard training when we start our camp in Bacolod although we have already been training mornings and afternoons every day. Coach would want us to be ready for the Long Teng Cup."
Left winger Yannick Tuazon, right winger Misagh Bahadoran and defender Nestor Margarce joined Gener in the panel along with Pharma-Rex Inc. marketing manager Victor Oliveros.
Tuazon, who has roots in Tagum City, said they are taking one game at a time after failing in their bid in the World Cup qualifier.
"We believe in the sport of football. We believe that we can excel in it. Davao, being one of the biggest cities, has lots of open fields where kids can play football," Tuazon said.
Of the 25 Azkals mainstays, Gener said Tuazon is the only one qualified to play in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games where the football event requires participation of under 23 years old players only.
Margarce, in an interview, said only five pure-blooded Filipinos are in the team that's why they feel the pressure of living up to expectations and play in the best of their abilities.
Bahadoran admitted that the country does not have to hire Fil-foreign players to form a champion team.
He said, "We need to get younger players. In football, players need to start young say age seven or 10 or even younger. We can't always rely on Fil-foreign players to play for the country.
Our team manager Dan Palami is starting to promote the sport in the grassroots level and that's the best way to start forming a champion team."
Oliveros said Azkals and Cortal SQR share the same challenging beginnings as their product also battle `giants' in the pharmaceutical industry.
"In a country where people are huge fans of basketball and boxing, football is also gaining popularity through the Azkals. We believe that it is in football where we can excel and compete against the great teams in Asia. It is our aim that Cortal SQR will be a household name just like the Azkals," Oliveros said.
He also said that the best football players in the country may soon come from Davao where the sport has already been established several years ago.
The four Azkals, meanwhile, thanked Cortal SQR for giving them relief from pain during practices and actual games.
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