by Jojo Malig, abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines - Philippine Azkals midfield spark plug Stephan Schröck returned to action in Germany Saturday, helping Greuther Fürth defeat Dynamo Dresden, 1-0, at the Trolli Arena.
Schrock was deployed at right midfield by Greuther Fürth manager Michael Büskens in the 2. Bundesliga clash.
The Filipino-German was the spearhead of several attacking plays and was unlucky to miss several scoring chances.
With the hosts pushing forward in the 18th minute, Schrock recieved a pass and pulled off a strike that missed the target.
His teammate, Olivier Occean, scored the game's lone goal off an assist from Sebastian Tyrala in the 48th minute.
A minute later, Dresden were reduced to 10 men when Cristian Fiel was sent off for a foul.
Schrock tried to increase Greuther Fürth's lead in the 51st minute but his shot was off the mark.
The visitors tried to launch a fightback but their efforts went for naught, even as another Dresden player, Pavel Fort, was given a red card in the 70th minute.
In the 81st minute, Schrock looked set to ensure their win with a goal but his shot was blocked by Dresden defenders.
Greuther Fürth boss Büskens rested Schrock in the 84th minute, bringing in Christian Rahn to replace the Filipino-German.
The 24-year-old Schrock, whose roots are from Parang in North Cotabato, made his international debut for the Azkals against Sri Lanka last June 29.
He scored the Philippines' lone goal in the Azkals' 1-2 loss to Gulf powerhouse Kuwait in the second leg of their FIFA World Cup qualifying tie at the Rizal Memorial Stadium last June 28.
Greuther Fürth are currently 4th in the 2. Bundesliga table, with 6 points from 3 matches and just a point off league leaders Fortuna Düsseldorf.
Before the 2. Bundesliga match, Greuther Fürth were coming off a 10-0 demolition of German 6th-tier league club Eimsbütteler TV in the opening round of the 2011-2012 DFB-Pokal cup competition.
Greuther Fürth will travel to Paderborn's Energieteam Arena for their next league match on August 13.
Showing posts with label Philippine Azkals vs Kuwait. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philippine Azkals vs Kuwait. Show all posts
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Emotions during national anthem overhelm Azkals' Gier
by Dennis Gasgonia, abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines – English-Filipino football player Rob Gier has explained why he was emotional while the Philippine national anthem was being played shortly before the Azkals' game versus Kuwait last week.
Gier was seen fighting back his tears while his teammates were singing "Lupang Hinirang" before their game at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
“I had a few people tease me and stuff about my reaction to the national anthem,” he said while being interviewed in BALLS TV's "Game Day."
He admitted that he has yet to fully memorize the lyrics of the Philippine National Anthem.
“Unfortunately, I'm not 100% on the words yet so rather than singing words that are wrong I kinda sing it to myself,” said Gier.
But why the tears?
“What goes through my head, is I think about my wife she's due to give birth in about 5 weeks... and I think about my mom and my friends and family everything like that goes to my head,” he explained.
“With the national anthem, whenever we sing it there with emotions, it was really, really a special moment.”
They may have lost that game against the technically-superior Kuwait, but they gained the respect and recognition of their foes.
“That first-half performance we put in there against a squad that in the top 100 in the world, going to half time, I don't think I've ever felt the feeling I had when Stephan Schrock scored that goal. That was a very very special moment, kinda live in me forever,” remembered Gier.
Gier also looked back to the days when he was just starting with the Azkals in 2009.
He said things were a lot different for them back then.
“When we were there, no one cared... no one wanted to know, no TV cameras, there are no reporters. There were no sponsors, no people writing about us… not so many endorsements coming in,” said Gier.
He said the thing that held them together is their love for the sport and country.
“We played football for the national team because we loved playing football,” explained Gier. “We're Filipinos and to represent the country is the greatest thing we can have.”
MANILA, Philippines – English-Filipino football player Rob Gier has explained why he was emotional while the Philippine national anthem was being played shortly before the Azkals' game versus Kuwait last week.
Gier was seen fighting back his tears while his teammates were singing "Lupang Hinirang" before their game at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
“I had a few people tease me and stuff about my reaction to the national anthem,” he said while being interviewed in BALLS TV's "Game Day."
He admitted that he has yet to fully memorize the lyrics of the Philippine National Anthem.
“Unfortunately, I'm not 100% on the words yet so rather than singing words that are wrong I kinda sing it to myself,” said Gier.
But why the tears?
“What goes through my head, is I think about my wife she's due to give birth in about 5 weeks... and I think about my mom and my friends and family everything like that goes to my head,” he explained.
“With the national anthem, whenever we sing it there with emotions, it was really, really a special moment.”
They may have lost that game against the technically-superior Kuwait, but they gained the respect and recognition of their foes.
“That first-half performance we put in there against a squad that in the top 100 in the world, going to half time, I don't think I've ever felt the feeling I had when Stephan Schrock scored that goal. That was a very very special moment, kinda live in me forever,” remembered Gier.
Gier also looked back to the days when he was just starting with the Azkals in 2009.
He said things were a lot different for them back then.
“When we were there, no one cared... no one wanted to know, no TV cameras, there are no reporters. There were no sponsors, no people writing about us… not so many endorsements coming in,” said Gier.
He said the thing that held them together is their love for the sport and country.
“We played football for the national team because we loved playing football,” explained Gier. “We're Filipinos and to represent the country is the greatest thing we can have.”
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Despite loss, Azkals get passing marks
by Peter Atencio - Manila Standard Today
SMALL consolation, perhaps, but Goran Tufegdzic, the Serbian coach of Kuwait’s national football squad, which beat the Philippine Azkals, 2-1, gave the nationals high marks for their gritty stand last Thursday during their rain-soaked match at the Rizal Memorial football stadium.
The Azkals, who also bowed to the Kuwaitis in the first match of their two-game series for the second round of their 2014 World Cup qualifying match, 0-3, played their guts out before 13,000 screaming fans but failed to keep pace with the more skillful Kuwaitis.
“As you see, there were many chances for scoring (for the Philippines) in the first half. They made it tough for our team,” said Tufegdžic, who steered the Kuwaitis to the third round with an aggregate of 5-1.
A total of 14 countries throughout Asia made it to the next round during simultaneous matches played during the day, with Thailand and Singapore joining Indonesia as the only football squads from Southeast Asia making the grade.
Indonesia beat Turkmenistan, 4-3, in Jakarta and made it via a n a 5-4 aggregate, Singapore drew with Malaysia, 1-1, but the Singaporeans advanced on a 6-4 tally. Thailand also played Palestine to a 2-all draw, but the Thais qualified counting their 1-0 win in the first leg.
Tufegdžic said the Al-Azraqs had a difficult time adjusting to the rains brought by the recent typhoon, but relied on their poise and experience, especially after losing Fahad Al-Ebrahim, who was thrown out after receiving a red card.
The Azkals scored the first goal on Fil-German Stephan Schrock’s grounder at the third minute of injury time at the end of the first half.
But the Al-Azraqs scored two goals in succession, the first courtesy of a looping shot from Yousef Nasser, which sailed past the head of goalie Neil Etheridge in the 61st minute, and the second from Waleed Jumah, who stormed past an approaching Etheridge and rolled in Kuwait’s second marker in the 85th.
Tufegdžic said he hopes to see the Philippines making it past the second round in the next qualifying matches in 2015.
Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss said there were plenty of lessons learned in their series against the Kuwaitis.
“This game has been brutal and it shows how bitter and hard football can be. Hard lessons have been learned and taken. We have young players in the team. We have a good balance here. They can take this defeat. They have to take it because of the fact that we have to acknowledge that we have a very strong opponent,” said Weiss.
SMALL consolation, perhaps, but Goran Tufegdzic, the Serbian coach of Kuwait’s national football squad, which beat the Philippine Azkals, 2-1, gave the nationals high marks for their gritty stand last Thursday during their rain-soaked match at the Rizal Memorial football stadium.
The Azkals, who also bowed to the Kuwaitis in the first match of their two-game series for the second round of their 2014 World Cup qualifying match, 0-3, played their guts out before 13,000 screaming fans but failed to keep pace with the more skillful Kuwaitis.
“As you see, there were many chances for scoring (for the Philippines) in the first half. They made it tough for our team,” said Tufegdžic, who steered the Kuwaitis to the third round with an aggregate of 5-1.
A total of 14 countries throughout Asia made it to the next round during simultaneous matches played during the day, with Thailand and Singapore joining Indonesia as the only football squads from Southeast Asia making the grade.
Indonesia beat Turkmenistan, 4-3, in Jakarta and made it via a n a 5-4 aggregate, Singapore drew with Malaysia, 1-1, but the Singaporeans advanced on a 6-4 tally. Thailand also played Palestine to a 2-all draw, but the Thais qualified counting their 1-0 win in the first leg.
Tufegdžic said the Al-Azraqs had a difficult time adjusting to the rains brought by the recent typhoon, but relied on their poise and experience, especially after losing Fahad Al-Ebrahim, who was thrown out after receiving a red card.
The Azkals scored the first goal on Fil-German Stephan Schrock’s grounder at the third minute of injury time at the end of the first half.
But the Al-Azraqs scored two goals in succession, the first courtesy of a looping shot from Yousef Nasser, which sailed past the head of goalie Neil Etheridge in the 61st minute, and the second from Waleed Jumah, who stormed past an approaching Etheridge and rolled in Kuwait’s second marker in the 85th.
Tufegdžic said he hopes to see the Philippines making it past the second round in the next qualifying matches in 2015.
Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss said there were plenty of lessons learned in their series against the Kuwaitis.
“This game has been brutal and it shows how bitter and hard football can be. Hard lessons have been learned and taken. We have young players in the team. We have a good balance here. They can take this defeat. They have to take it because of the fact that we have to acknowledge that we have a very strong opponent,” said Weiss.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Azkals move on after losing chance to qualify for 2014 FIFA World Cup
Nerisa Almo - Philippine Entertainment Portal
The Philippine Azkals may have lost their chance to compete in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, but they will continue representing the country in the international football scene.
PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) was able to talk to some of the members of the national football team during the store opening of Health and Beyond at the Rockwell Powerplant Mall in Makati City last Friday, July 29.
Defender Anton del Rosario said that while the result of their second match against Kuwait Al-Azraq was disappointing, he acknowledged that "Kuwait is a great team. They are more than 50 places above us and have more experience. They've all been playing for a long time and they're all playing professionally."
He would also like to think of their defeat as an inspiration for the team to improve.
Anton told PEP, "Football just started here in the country. So, I mean, we gotta take baby steps, you know. Things just don't happen overnight.
"So, you know, that's what we're working on. We're working towards being like a Kuwait team or being better than the Kuwait team."
Another defender Rob Gier agreed, "I really think there's a lot of things to improve on. But we're taking steps towards the right direction now."
Midfielder Simon Greatwich, on the other hand, thinks this is just one of the challenges for the team.
He said, "I guess we can't dwell on it and we have to pick up for the next game.
"We know it's tough to bring it back, but we know that we could definitely still do it."
Fellow midfielder Nate Burkey also wanted to stress that despite what happened last Thursday, there were still a lot of things about the team their supporters could be proud of.
He said: "It's still a disappointment. It's a lost and, you know, we're out of the World Cup qualifying game. But, you know, we have to keep our head high because it's our biggest accomplishment."
Defender Jason Sabio, who came to the store opening to support his teammates, also said, "We fought hard. Kuwait's on the good side. But, you know, we have much, much improved from seven or eight months ago.
"I think we've grown more than what we've expected.
"It's a learning experience. Now we know what we need to work on and, you know, what we should improve on to get ready for the upcoming tournament."
The members of PHL Azkals are set to go on vacation for a month before they resume training. The team will prepare for the annual Long Teng Cup in Taiwan in late September.
ON THE CONTROVERSY. Meanwhile, PEP also took the chance to ask three of the four members of PHL Azkals whose names were dragged in a recent controversy.
It will be recalled that Anton, Simon, Jason, and goalkeeper Neil Etheridge were linked in an alleged gang rape case. The supposed victim was female model Amanda Coling, who claimed her career has been affected by the issue.
After the Azkals' disappointing match against Kuwait, some believe the issue could have affected the performance of the team.
However, Anton does not think so. He told PEP, "I mean, we're all professionals, we're all focused on the game, that's all that matters.
The Philippine Azkals may have lost their chance to compete in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, but they will continue representing the country in the international football scene.
PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) was able to talk to some of the members of the national football team during the store opening of Health and Beyond at the Rockwell Powerplant Mall in Makati City last Friday, July 29.
Defender Anton del Rosario said that while the result of their second match against Kuwait Al-Azraq was disappointing, he acknowledged that "Kuwait is a great team. They are more than 50 places above us and have more experience. They've all been playing for a long time and they're all playing professionally."
He would also like to think of their defeat as an inspiration for the team to improve.
Anton told PEP, "Football just started here in the country. So, I mean, we gotta take baby steps, you know. Things just don't happen overnight.
"So, you know, that's what we're working on. We're working towards being like a Kuwait team or being better than the Kuwait team."
Another defender Rob Gier agreed, "I really think there's a lot of things to improve on. But we're taking steps towards the right direction now."
Midfielder Simon Greatwich, on the other hand, thinks this is just one of the challenges for the team.
He said, "I guess we can't dwell on it and we have to pick up for the next game.
"We know it's tough to bring it back, but we know that we could definitely still do it."
Fellow midfielder Nate Burkey also wanted to stress that despite what happened last Thursday, there were still a lot of things about the team their supporters could be proud of.
He said: "It's still a disappointment. It's a lost and, you know, we're out of the World Cup qualifying game. But, you know, we have to keep our head high because it's our biggest accomplishment."
Defender Jason Sabio, who came to the store opening to support his teammates, also said, "We fought hard. Kuwait's on the good side. But, you know, we have much, much improved from seven or eight months ago.
"I think we've grown more than what we've expected.
"It's a learning experience. Now we know what we need to work on and, you know, what we should improve on to get ready for the upcoming tournament."
The members of PHL Azkals are set to go on vacation for a month before they resume training. The team will prepare for the annual Long Teng Cup in Taiwan in late September.
ON THE CONTROVERSY. Meanwhile, PEP also took the chance to ask three of the four members of PHL Azkals whose names were dragged in a recent controversy.
It will be recalled that Anton, Simon, Jason, and goalkeeper Neil Etheridge were linked in an alleged gang rape case. The supposed victim was female model Amanda Coling, who claimed her career has been affected by the issue.
After the Azkals' disappointing match against Kuwait, some believe the issue could have affected the performance of the team.
However, Anton does not think so. He told PEP, "I mean, we're all professionals, we're all focused on the game, that's all that matters.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Azkals give fans a beautiful game
By Olmin Leyba (The Philippine Star)
MANILA, Philippines - However stronger and competitive they have become the past six months, the mission of posting a king-size upset over 10-time Gulf Kuwait last night might have been too much of a “miracle” to ask for the Azkals.
“Less than a year ago, we were playing Hong Kong’s Under-23 squad and we lost 4-2. I think from that time up to now, we have faced a lot of countries and we saw the growth of the team, how the team has been strengthened by a new system and new players,” said Azkals team manager Dan Palami.
“I think it was too much of a miracle, I supposed, that we’re asking. But it’s a miracle all the same because we dished off a good performance and we posed problems to a strong nation like Kuwait,” he added.
Meanwhile, Malacañang lauded yesterday the bravery of the Azkals, confident that while the country’s football team lost to Kuwait, they would be able to “bounce back” in the future.
“We congratulate them on the heart and the bravery that our team showed. They really showed the world that we have the capability to excel in this field. And we know that this will not be the end for them,” deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said.
“This may be the end of the campaign for this year but certainly, we know and we are confident that our team will bounce back,” she added. “Let’s just continue to throw our support to our athletes, not just with the Azkals, but all of our Filipino athletes who have been working very hard to win and give pride and honor to our country.”
The Azkals (162nd in the world) came close to pulling one over the No. 95 Al Azraq when they seized a 1-0 lead halfway through the second match of their 2014 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
But the highly regarded Kuwaitis, playing one-man down, bullied their way around in the final 45 minutes to prick the Filipinos’ bubble, 2-1. Counting their 3-0 triumph in the first leg, Al Azraq won the series on aggregate, 5-1, for a third-round berth.
“I think we were more compact today, except when you play a team like Kuwait that’s really world-class, you really get to pay for your mistakes. On the few occasions that we had those mistakes, they took advantage of it and scored a goal, whereas when we had the opportunity, we missed those chances,” Palami said.
After this campaign, the Azkals still have new grounds to break in future tournaments, including the AFC Challenge Cup in 2012 and the next World Cup qualifiers in 2015.
“2018 World Cup – that has also been goal, to be able to get into that final round. Slowly, we have to get there, slowly we have to rebuild the team, but it will take a while,” Palami said.
“You can see the difference (in Kuwait match). I mean, if you combine all the caps of Aly (Borromeo) and the rest of our players, it won’t be enough compared to one Kuwait player who has more than 100 caps. But we’ll get there, slowly but for as long as the steps are taken towards the right direction,” he added.
Even coach Michael Weiss sees a bright prospect for his developing side.
“We’ll go better places. In a few years maybe we’ll beat Kuwait,” he said before he called it a night.
Notes: The scene was surreal that Palami and his brave band came too close to tears when they did their walk-through around the Rizal Stadium oval Thursday night. “Marami sa amin ang naiiyak (Most of us were teary-eyed). Maybe people might have thought this was because we lost but no, it was mixed emotion. Despite the setback, fans continued to show their love for the team. This is what I love about football, for as long as the fans see you’re giving it all you have, fighting and hoping to make a difference until the last whistle, they’ll be behind you,” Palami said.
MANILA, Philippines - However stronger and competitive they have become the past six months, the mission of posting a king-size upset over 10-time Gulf Kuwait last night might have been too much of a “miracle” to ask for the Azkals.
“Less than a year ago, we were playing Hong Kong’s Under-23 squad and we lost 4-2. I think from that time up to now, we have faced a lot of countries and we saw the growth of the team, how the team has been strengthened by a new system and new players,” said Azkals team manager Dan Palami.
“I think it was too much of a miracle, I supposed, that we’re asking. But it’s a miracle all the same because we dished off a good performance and we posed problems to a strong nation like Kuwait,” he added.
Meanwhile, Malacañang lauded yesterday the bravery of the Azkals, confident that while the country’s football team lost to Kuwait, they would be able to “bounce back” in the future.
“We congratulate them on the heart and the bravery that our team showed. They really showed the world that we have the capability to excel in this field. And we know that this will not be the end for them,” deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said.
“This may be the end of the campaign for this year but certainly, we know and we are confident that our team will bounce back,” she added. “Let’s just continue to throw our support to our athletes, not just with the Azkals, but all of our Filipino athletes who have been working very hard to win and give pride and honor to our country.”
The Azkals (162nd in the world) came close to pulling one over the No. 95 Al Azraq when they seized a 1-0 lead halfway through the second match of their 2014 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
But the highly regarded Kuwaitis, playing one-man down, bullied their way around in the final 45 minutes to prick the Filipinos’ bubble, 2-1. Counting their 3-0 triumph in the first leg, Al Azraq won the series on aggregate, 5-1, for a third-round berth.
“I think we were more compact today, except when you play a team like Kuwait that’s really world-class, you really get to pay for your mistakes. On the few occasions that we had those mistakes, they took advantage of it and scored a goal, whereas when we had the opportunity, we missed those chances,” Palami said.
After this campaign, the Azkals still have new grounds to break in future tournaments, including the AFC Challenge Cup in 2012 and the next World Cup qualifiers in 2015.
“2018 World Cup – that has also been goal, to be able to get into that final round. Slowly, we have to get there, slowly we have to rebuild the team, but it will take a while,” Palami said.
“You can see the difference (in Kuwait match). I mean, if you combine all the caps of Aly (Borromeo) and the rest of our players, it won’t be enough compared to one Kuwait player who has more than 100 caps. But we’ll get there, slowly but for as long as the steps are taken towards the right direction,” he added.
Even coach Michael Weiss sees a bright prospect for his developing side.
“We’ll go better places. In a few years maybe we’ll beat Kuwait,” he said before he called it a night.
Notes: The scene was surreal that Palami and his brave band came too close to tears when they did their walk-through around the Rizal Stadium oval Thursday night. “Marami sa amin ang naiiyak (Most of us were teary-eyed). Maybe people might have thought this was because we lost but no, it was mixed emotion. Despite the setback, fans continued to show their love for the team. This is what I love about football, for as long as the fans see you’re giving it all you have, fighting and hoping to make a difference until the last whistle, they’ll be behind you,” Palami said.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Five reasons to be proud you’re an Azkals fan
Text and photos by MAV C. GONZALES - OMG, GMA News
By this time, you would have already read countless tweets and articles and Facebook status updates on the Azkals’ 1-5 loss to Kuwait. This article is not meant to chronicle their last World Cup qualifier. Since the team needed five more goals to have won this series, here’s five reasons to be proud – or at least amused – that you are an Azkals supporter.
Soaked and stuck in traffic? No problem.
Regardless of long ticket lines, jam-packed parking lots, non-stop rains and bumper-to-bumper traffic, thousands of fans still came out to support the Philippine team.
The game was supposed to kick off at 7pm. But as early as 5pm, fastfood chains all around Rizal Stadium were already filled with Azkal fans. And these aren’t usual fans. They were all wearing Azkal shirts; some even went as far as painting their faces and wearing wigs (yes, it didn’t matter if the paint dripped off their faces because of the rain).
With fellow supporters as die-hard as these, who wouldn’t be inspired to cheer along despite the weather?
Celebrities
This is the “maybe not proud, but maybe amusing" part – the celebrities who showed up in the historic football game.
While we expected the presence of Angel Locsin (the first to be named to the unofficial “WAGS" list by the fans), a handful of other celebrities came out to support the Philippine team.
Angel came with fellow actress Dimples Romana. Gab Valenciano and Andrew Wolff among others also watched the Azkals.
Celebrity couple Valerie Concepcion and Dondon Hontiveros, although both present in the grandstand, didn’t arrive nor did they leave at the same time.
But perhaps the biggest celebrity out there that night was Mister Philippine Showbiz himself, Piolo Pascual. He was very low-key the entire match, maybe because he wanted to be the spectator rather than the spectacle during those two hours.
Coach Weiss and the players get fired up
It’s normal in any sporting event that players, coaches and sometimes fans lose their tempers. But when you have Rob Gier pushing an opponent over a foul contention, then that shows how much the Azkals wanted to win this game.
Even the ever meek James Younghusband was going at the referee for not making calls against Kuwait. Yellow cards were slapped on both Stephan Schrock and Anton Del Rosario. A Kuwaiti player was even sent off with a red card after tripping Chieffy Caligdong and complaining about the call.
At various points of the match, you would also see Coach Michael Weiss shaking his head or shrugging his arms because he knew how much was at stake. Despite criticisms, Coach Weiss believes that he used his players and system in the best way possible. It just wasn’t their lucky night.
Schrocky’s goal
If there was one guy who had it good during the game, it would undoubtedly be Stephan Schrock who just came from a one-game suspension.
With two minutes added to the first half, Schrock scored a last-minute goal at the 47th mark. Receiving a pass from Caligdong, he went on to make the Azkals’ lone goal in this series.
The Fil-German did a fist bump as they finally got a much-needed offensive attack. And what did he get from that goal? Cheers from the fans and kisses from his teammates.
Never say die attitude
With the game about to start, it was a bit worrisome that the bleachers were only half-filled. Probably due to rains, viewers were still coming in after the halftime break.
While these latecomers missed about 75% of their tickets’ value when they missed Schrock’s goal, it was an exhilarating experience seeing everyone in high spirits despite the impending loss.
As the game was about to close – and the Philippines obviously bowing down to Kuwait – the crowd continued to chant “Azkals" and “Pilipinas" to their hearts’ content.
Just like what Coach Weiss said before, “We're gonna lose a few games once we go up higher level competition, but I hope the fans will still support us."
Coach, your team got just that tonight. And it was well-deserved.
Soaked and stuck in traffic? No problem.
Regardless of long ticket lines, jam-packed parking lots, non-stop rains and bumper-to-bumper traffic, thousands of fans still came out to support the Philippine team.
The game was supposed to kick off at 7pm. But as early as 5pm, fastfood chains all around Rizal Stadium were already filled with Azkal fans. And these aren’t usual fans. They were all wearing Azkal shirts; some even went as far as painting their faces and wearing wigs (yes, it didn’t matter if the paint dripped off their faces because of the rain).
With fellow supporters as die-hard as these, who wouldn’t be inspired to cheer along despite the weather?
Celebrities
This is the “maybe not proud, but maybe amusing" part – the celebrities who showed up in the historic football game.
While we expected the presence of Angel Locsin (the first to be named to the unofficial “WAGS" list by the fans), a handful of other celebrities came out to support the Philippine team.
Angel came with fellow actress Dimples Romana. Gab Valenciano and Andrew Wolff among others also watched the Azkals.
Celebrity couple Valerie Concepcion and Dondon Hontiveros, although both present in the grandstand, didn’t arrive nor did they leave at the same time.
But perhaps the biggest celebrity out there that night was Mister Philippine Showbiz himself, Piolo Pascual. He was very low-key the entire match, maybe because he wanted to be the spectator rather than the spectacle during those two hours.
Coach Weiss and the players get fired up
It’s normal in any sporting event that players, coaches and sometimes fans lose their tempers. But when you have Rob Gier pushing an opponent over a foul contention, then that shows how much the Azkals wanted to win this game.
Even the ever meek James Younghusband was going at the referee for not making calls against Kuwait. Yellow cards were slapped on both Stephan Schrock and Anton Del Rosario. A Kuwaiti player was even sent off with a red card after tripping Chieffy Caligdong and complaining about the call.
At various points of the match, you would also see Coach Michael Weiss shaking his head or shrugging his arms because he knew how much was at stake. Despite criticisms, Coach Weiss believes that he used his players and system in the best way possible. It just wasn’t their lucky night.
Schrocky’s goal
If there was one guy who had it good during the game, it would undoubtedly be Stephan Schrock who just came from a one-game suspension.
With two minutes added to the first half, Schrock scored a last-minute goal at the 47th mark. Receiving a pass from Caligdong, he went on to make the Azkals’ lone goal in this series.
The Fil-German did a fist bump as they finally got a much-needed offensive attack. And what did he get from that goal? Cheers from the fans and kisses from his teammates.
Never say die attitude
With the game about to start, it was a bit worrisome that the bleachers were only half-filled. Probably due to rains, viewers were still coming in after the halftime break.
While these latecomers missed about 75% of their tickets’ value when they missed Schrock’s goal, it was an exhilarating experience seeing everyone in high spirits despite the impending loss.
As the game was about to close – and the Philippines obviously bowing down to Kuwait – the crowd continued to chant “Azkals" and “Pilipinas" to their hearts’ content.
Just like what Coach Weiss said before, “We're gonna lose a few games once we go up higher level competition, but I hope the fans will still support us."
Coach, your team got just that tonight. And it was well-deserved.
Malacañang congratulates Azkals despite loss
By Angelo L. Gutierrez (philstar.com)
MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang today commended the Philippine Azkals despite losing to Kuwait in a heart-pounding game last night, ending their hope of entering the World Cup.
"We congratulate them on the heart and bravery that our Philippine team showed," deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a press briefing in Malacañang.
Valte said that despite the loss, the Philippine Azkals should be commended for showing the world that Filipinos can also play competitively in football.
"We know that this will not be the end for them. This may be the end of their campaign this year, but we are confident that our team will bounce back," she said.
Valte urged Filipinos to continue supporting the Azkals despite the loss. She also courted support for other Filipino athletes, who have shown determination in their own fields of sports.
The Azkals were stopped by Kuwait's Al Azraq after a 90-minute encounter for the 2014 Fifa world Cup Asian Qualifiers Second Round at the Rizal Memorial Stadium last night.
The Azkals broke the first score of the game, but the Kuwaitis bounced back and stole a 2-1 win from the Filipinos.
Together with the 3-0 verdict they posted in Kuwait last Saturday, Al Azraq won the two-game series on goal aggregate, 5-1, to earn a berth in the third round and dash the Azkals’ World Cup hopes at least for now.
MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang today commended the Philippine Azkals despite losing to Kuwait in a heart-pounding game last night, ending their hope of entering the World Cup.
"We congratulate them on the heart and bravery that our Philippine team showed," deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a press briefing in Malacañang.
Valte said that despite the loss, the Philippine Azkals should be commended for showing the world that Filipinos can also play competitively in football.
"We know that this will not be the end for them. This may be the end of their campaign this year, but we are confident that our team will bounce back," she said.
Valte urged Filipinos to continue supporting the Azkals despite the loss. She also courted support for other Filipino athletes, who have shown determination in their own fields of sports.
The Azkals were stopped by Kuwait's Al Azraq after a 90-minute encounter for the 2014 Fifa world Cup Asian Qualifiers Second Round at the Rizal Memorial Stadium last night.
The Azkals broke the first score of the game, but the Kuwaitis bounced back and stole a 2-1 win from the Filipinos.
Together with the 3-0 verdict they posted in Kuwait last Saturday, Al Azraq won the two-game series on goal aggregate, 5-1, to earn a berth in the third round and dash the Azkals’ World Cup hopes at least for now.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Valiant Azkals bow out of World Cup qualifiers
by Jojo Malig, abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals' World Cup qualifying campaign ended after losing to a 10-man Kuwaiti squad, 1-2 (1-5 on aggregate), in the second leg of their tie at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on Thursday night.
The Kuwaitis, who were enjoying a 3-goal lead from the first leg, went on the attack right at the opening whistle as they funneled passes to the left wing.
The Azkals, after being pinned back for several minutes, launched counterattacks with Phil Younghusband at the receiving end of long balls.
Kuwait had 2 golden opportunities to increase their aggregate lead over the Philippines.
Two Kuwati strikes hit the upright, while another forced a flying save from Neil Etheridge.
The second-leg deadlock was broken by a stunning long-range screamer from Azkals midfielder Stephan Schrock.
The Filipino German, who missed the first leg because of suspension, connected on a thunderbolt from 30 yards that found its way past the outstreched arms of the Kuwaiti goalkeeper.
Kuwait were reduced to 10 men after Fahad Al Ebrahim was given his second yellow card for a bookable offense.
However, they quickly recovered through a long-range goal by Yousef Nasser in the 61st minute.
A breakaway run by Waleed Ali in the 83rd minute resulted in an own goal by Rob Gier.
It silenced the Azkals, who failed to capitalize on having an extra man.
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals' World Cup qualifying campaign ended after losing to a 10-man Kuwaiti squad, 1-2 (1-5 on aggregate), in the second leg of their tie at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on Thursday night.
The Kuwaitis, who were enjoying a 3-goal lead from the first leg, went on the attack right at the opening whistle as they funneled passes to the left wing.
The Azkals, after being pinned back for several minutes, launched counterattacks with Phil Younghusband at the receiving end of long balls.
Kuwait had 2 golden opportunities to increase their aggregate lead over the Philippines.
Two Kuwati strikes hit the upright, while another forced a flying save from Neil Etheridge.
The second-leg deadlock was broken by a stunning long-range screamer from Azkals midfielder Stephan Schrock.
The Filipino German, who missed the first leg because of suspension, connected on a thunderbolt from 30 yards that found its way past the outstreched arms of the Kuwaiti goalkeeper.
Kuwait were reduced to 10 men after Fahad Al Ebrahim was given his second yellow card for a bookable offense.
However, they quickly recovered through a long-range goal by Yousef Nasser in the 61st minute.
A breakaway run by Waleed Ali in the 83rd minute resulted in an own goal by Rob Gier.
It silenced the Azkals, who failed to capitalize on having an extra man.
Road to World Cup ends: Azkals bow to Kuwaitis at home
By Dino Maragay (philstar.com)
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals failed to sustain the momentum of scoring the first goal as they yielded to a composed Kuwait squad, 1-2, to end their journey to the 2014 World Cup in tonight’s Asian qualifiers at the Rizal Memorial Football Coliseum.
Stephan Schrock hit one home near the end of the first half to spark what was supposed to be the rallying point for the Filipinos, who trail the Kuwaitis on aggregate, 0-3, entering tonight’s second round match.
As it turned out, Schrock’s goal was the lone bright moment for the Azkals, who allowed the visitors to score two goals in the second half – the second one a result of a defensive scramble.
The Filipino booters end their series with the Gulf powerhouse losing on an 1-5 aggregate score.
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals failed to sustain the momentum of scoring the first goal as they yielded to a composed Kuwait squad, 1-2, to end their journey to the 2014 World Cup in tonight’s Asian qualifiers at the Rizal Memorial Football Coliseum.
Stephan Schrock hit one home near the end of the first half to spark what was supposed to be the rallying point for the Filipinos, who trail the Kuwaitis on aggregate, 0-3, entering tonight’s second round match.
As it turned out, Schrock’s goal was the lone bright moment for the Azkals, who allowed the visitors to score two goals in the second half – the second one a result of a defensive scramble.
The Filipino booters end their series with the Gulf powerhouse losing on an 1-5 aggregate score.
Home › Sports › Azkals fans start filling up Rizal Stadium
abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines – Football fans are starting to fill up the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila as they prepare to cheer for the Philippine Azkals when the Filipino footballers play against Kuwait Al-Azraq on Thursday night.
"Patuloy ang pagdagsa ng mga tao sa Rizal Memorial stadium at dumarating din yung mga iba't ibang grupo ng kabataan na may kanya-kanyang mga gimik para ipakita ang kanilang tulong suporta sa Philippine Football team Azkals,” reported dzMM’s Henry Atuelan.
Atuelan said most of the Azkals die hard fans arriving at the stadium were wearing white shirt and face paint.
Some fans even brought Philippine flags which will be waved when the game kicks off at 7 p.m.
Members of the Azkals support group, Kaholeros, also brought along drums which will be used in cheering the Philippine football team.
Organizers are expecting thousands of Filipinos to occupy the historic stadium, where the Azkals defeated the Sri Lanka Brave Reds early this month.
Almost 13,000 fans crammed Rizal Memorial Stadium during that game that saw the Azkals beating Sri Lanka, 4-0.
Heavy traffic
DzMM’s Dexter Ganibe, meanwhile, reported that vehicular traffic around the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex is getting heavy.
He said the Manila Police District (MPD) Traffic Division is urging Azkals fans not to take the P. Ocampo and Adriatico Streets because of traffic congestion.
“Sinabi ni Chief Inspector Reynaldo Nava, hepe ng traffic division, na may paradahan sa Harrison Plaza at kapag napuno na ito ay sa bisinidad na ng Cultural Center of the Philippines na maaring i-park yung kanilang sasakyan at maglakad na lamang patungo dito sa Rizal Memorial Stadium,” said Ganibe.
Traffic flow in F.B. Harrison St. and Roxas Boulevard service road is now being affected by the congestion around the sports complex.
MANILA, Philippines – Football fans are starting to fill up the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila as they prepare to cheer for the Philippine Azkals when the Filipino footballers play against Kuwait Al-Azraq on Thursday night.
"Patuloy ang pagdagsa ng mga tao sa Rizal Memorial stadium at dumarating din yung mga iba't ibang grupo ng kabataan na may kanya-kanyang mga gimik para ipakita ang kanilang tulong suporta sa Philippine Football team Azkals,” reported dzMM’s Henry Atuelan.
Atuelan said most of the Azkals die hard fans arriving at the stadium were wearing white shirt and face paint.
Some fans even brought Philippine flags which will be waved when the game kicks off at 7 p.m.
Members of the Azkals support group, Kaholeros, also brought along drums which will be used in cheering the Philippine football team.
Organizers are expecting thousands of Filipinos to occupy the historic stadium, where the Azkals defeated the Sri Lanka Brave Reds early this month.
Almost 13,000 fans crammed Rizal Memorial Stadium during that game that saw the Azkals beating Sri Lanka, 4-0.
Heavy traffic
DzMM’s Dexter Ganibe, meanwhile, reported that vehicular traffic around the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex is getting heavy.
He said the Manila Police District (MPD) Traffic Division is urging Azkals fans not to take the P. Ocampo and Adriatico Streets because of traffic congestion.
“Sinabi ni Chief Inspector Reynaldo Nava, hepe ng traffic division, na may paradahan sa Harrison Plaza at kapag napuno na ito ay sa bisinidad na ng Cultural Center of the Philippines na maaring i-park yung kanilang sasakyan at maglakad na lamang patungo dito sa Rizal Memorial Stadium,” said Ganibe.
Traffic flow in F.B. Harrison St. and Roxas Boulevard service road is now being affected by the congestion around the sports complex.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Can the Azkals beat Kuwait with a 4-4-2?
by Jojo Malig, abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines - With a mountain to climb, the Philippine Azkals will take to the Rizal Memoral Stadium pitch on Thursday knowing that they must score goals -- lots of them -- if they hope to beat Kuwait on aggregate and advance to the next round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Azkals coach Michael Weiss used a counterattacking 4-5-1 formation in the first leg of the tie, hoping to snatch at least a draw in the fixture.
The crossbar denied lone striker Phil Younghusband and attacking midfielder Angel Guirado from scoring away goals for the Philippines.
After end-to-end action in the first half, the Azkals lost steam in the second half and a 3-0 scoreline flattered the Kuwaitis, who struggled to pick the lock of the Philippines' defense for much of the game.
Lessons learned
The first match offered valuable lessons for the Azkals that must be put into good use Thursday.
Kuwait seems to have also used a 4-5-1, or at least a variation of it, in the opening leg.
Bader Al-Mutwa, who had been identified as their most dangerous outfield player, was primarily used as a decoy to create space for his teammates.
Most of Kuwait's attacks sprung from long balls to the flanks, which they overloaded with men.
The long balls were launched from the center by deep-lying midfielders, who were given room to operate and were not closed down.
Kuwait's pacy wingers, who were at the receiving end of the long balls, often did not track back to defend, as the Philippines' fullbacks remained in their own side of the pitch and did not push forward.
Kuwait's first goal came from a header off a cross from the right flank into the box. The Philippines missed the presence of suspended skipper and central defender Aly Borromeo in that play.
Like Borromeo, diminutive midfield general Stephan Schrock missed the opening leg due to suspension from 2 yellow cards.
Without Schrock pulling the strings through defense-splitting passes and runs into the box, the Azkals' central midfield was in a confused state in Kuwait.
Kuwait's third goal, which added gloss to their win, was also a result of Azkals defenders failing to close down Fahad Al Ebrahim, who had all the time in the world to pull the trigger from long range.
The Azkals defenders, with perhaps fatigue and effects of the Gulf heat setting in, sat too deep in that play.
The Azkals' back 4 sitting too deep was also partly to blame for Kuwait's second goal, which came from one of many goalmouth scrambles that ensued in front of Neil Etheridge.
If fatigue played an important role in the Philippines' loss, it can be traced to the decision of the Azkals' German gaffer not send fresh legs into the match well until the scoreline was already settled in the dying minutes of the game.
While his counterpart, Goran Tufegdzic, made key substitutions to sustain and even raise their momentum in the second half, Weiss decided to allow some players who had already been suffering muscle cramps to remain on the pitch.
Back to a 4-4-2
Weiss has announced that he will revert back to an orthodox 4-4-2 formation in the return leg.
The formation uses 2 strikers, 4 midfielders, and 4 defenders.
Phil Younghusband and Guirado are expected to partner in attack, while Chieffy Caligdong and James Younghusband will be on the midfield's left and right flanks.
The 2 central midfield pivots will be Schrock and either Manuel Ott or Jason de Jong. Meanwhile, defenders Borromeo, Rob Gier, Anton del Rosario, and Ray Anthony Jónsson are expected to hold the fort as the Azkals' back 4.
The formation did wonders for the Philippines in the 4-0 mauling of Sri Lanka, but is untested against higher-ranked opponents like Kuwait.
The onus is on the Azkals to score goals against Kuwait, and a 4-4-2 formation with 2 strikers up front will give them more attacking options and opportunities.
It will be a welcome sight for Phil Younghusband, who was going up against 2 or more defenders by his lonesome during the Kuwait watch.
However, the 2 Azkals strikers on their own won't be able to take on Kuwait's 4 defenders. Support must come both from the midfield and the fullbacks.
The 4-4-2 will provide a better link-up between the forwards and the midfielders on the wing who may choose to cut inside and join the attack like what Caligdong often does when he scores for the Philippines.
If Caligdong plays narrow again and James Younghusband sprays passes deep from right midfield, as he often does, Weiss should use Del Rosario and Jonsson to exploit the spaces left behind by their teammates on the flanks.
The fullbacks should provide width and bomb forward instead of waiting for Kuwait's attacks to come. Having the 2 fullbacks pushing forward will overload Kuwait's flanks and pin back its wingers, who will be forced to defend.
Any gap created by one of the fullbacks bombing forward should be filled in any one of the 2 central midfielders, who can drop deep to support the defense. Schrock, De Jong, or Ott can act as insurance policies if the Azkals lose possession and one of the fullbacks is too far forward to quickly return back to defend.
In the modern game, fullbacks attacking the flanks and providing width are essential for teams in overwhelming a stubborn defense and even changing the outcome of matches.
Football aficionados can remember the impact that Barcelona rightback Juliano Belleti made against Arsenal in the 2006 UEFA Champions League final, Tottenham Hotspur leftback Gareth Bale against Inter Milan over 2 legs in 2010, and Manchester United leftback Patrice Evra against everyone the Red Devils face.
A clean sheet against Kuwait?
Aside from scoring at least 4 goals in the return leg, the Azkals also face the daunting task of preventing their opponents from scoring.
In the first leg, much attention was given to Al-Mutwa. If the Philippines wants to keep a clean sheet, similar attention should also be given to the Kuwaiti's teammates who link up with him in attacks.
Creating scoring opportunities for his teammates, instead being an out-and-out goalscorer, is Al-Mutwa's style of play.
Thus, putting 2 men to cover him everytime he gets the ball would play to Kuwait's advantage, as he can simply pass it to a teammate running the channels.
Kuwait also loves to counterattack using long balls, as shown in the first leg.
The Philippines tried to defend against the counter by sitting deep, which resulted in disaster for the visiting XI.
Instead of defending deep against counterattacks, the Azkals's back 4 may push their defensive line higher and use the offside trap to shut down Kuwait's long balls.
The offside trap and a higher defensive line are also effective if accompanied by a high press, with Kuwait's players being closed down as soon as they recieve the ball instead of allowing them to carry and pass it with leisure.
Kuwait's defenders and midfielders being closed down while they are still on their side of their pitch may result either in errors and misplaced passes, which could translate to scoring opportunities for the Azkals even against the run of play.
Denying Kuwait's central midfielders possession of the ball also throws a monkey wrench into their attacks. They will be forced to rush passing the ball to their defenders or clearing the ball for an Azkals throw-in, instead of making crossfield passes to forwards and wingers with accuracy.
Playing for possession
Compared to a 4-5-1, a 4-4-2 formation is designed for teams to retain the ball to create scoring opportunities instead of relying too much on counterattacks.
Although it has weaknesses, such as the midfield sometimes overwhelmed by opposing players, it is a balanced formation that provides great flexibility.
The Azkals can attack from the left through Chieffy, if James Younghusband finds a gridlock on the right wing and- vice-versa. If both flanks are blocked, a Schrock through-ball or a dribble through the middle may open Kuwait's defense.
A 4-4-2 may quickly switch to either a bold 4-2-4 or even a 2-4-4, from defense to offense, depending on opportunities during the match.
However, key to an effective use of the formation is possession of the ball. It is not effective if Kuwait will be allowed to hold the ball and control the tempo for most of the match.
One can't score a goal if one does not have the ball.
Using a 4-4-2 formation and with millions of their supporters watching at the Rizal Memorial Stadium and on television, the Azkals can pull off a bigger shock than the miracle in Vietnam last year.
However, the right strategy must be accompanied by the right tactics, and execution must follow theory. Form follows function, architect Louis Sullivan once said.
MANILA, Philippines - With a mountain to climb, the Philippine Azkals will take to the Rizal Memoral Stadium pitch on Thursday knowing that they must score goals -- lots of them -- if they hope to beat Kuwait on aggregate and advance to the next round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Azkals coach Michael Weiss used a counterattacking 4-5-1 formation in the first leg of the tie, hoping to snatch at least a draw in the fixture.
The crossbar denied lone striker Phil Younghusband and attacking midfielder Angel Guirado from scoring away goals for the Philippines.
After end-to-end action in the first half, the Azkals lost steam in the second half and a 3-0 scoreline flattered the Kuwaitis, who struggled to pick the lock of the Philippines' defense for much of the game.
Lessons learned
The first match offered valuable lessons for the Azkals that must be put into good use Thursday.
Kuwait seems to have also used a 4-5-1, or at least a variation of it, in the opening leg.
Bader Al-Mutwa, who had been identified as their most dangerous outfield player, was primarily used as a decoy to create space for his teammates.
Most of Kuwait's attacks sprung from long balls to the flanks, which they overloaded with men.
The long balls were launched from the center by deep-lying midfielders, who were given room to operate and were not closed down.
Kuwait's pacy wingers, who were at the receiving end of the long balls, often did not track back to defend, as the Philippines' fullbacks remained in their own side of the pitch and did not push forward.
Kuwait's first goal came from a header off a cross from the right flank into the box. The Philippines missed the presence of suspended skipper and central defender Aly Borromeo in that play.
Like Borromeo, diminutive midfield general Stephan Schrock missed the opening leg due to suspension from 2 yellow cards.
Without Schrock pulling the strings through defense-splitting passes and runs into the box, the Azkals' central midfield was in a confused state in Kuwait.
Kuwait's third goal, which added gloss to their win, was also a result of Azkals defenders failing to close down Fahad Al Ebrahim, who had all the time in the world to pull the trigger from long range.
The Azkals defenders, with perhaps fatigue and effects of the Gulf heat setting in, sat too deep in that play.
The Azkals' back 4 sitting too deep was also partly to blame for Kuwait's second goal, which came from one of many goalmouth scrambles that ensued in front of Neil Etheridge.
If fatigue played an important role in the Philippines' loss, it can be traced to the decision of the Azkals' German gaffer not send fresh legs into the match well until the scoreline was already settled in the dying minutes of the game.
While his counterpart, Goran Tufegdzic, made key substitutions to sustain and even raise their momentum in the second half, Weiss decided to allow some players who had already been suffering muscle cramps to remain on the pitch.
Back to a 4-4-2
Weiss has announced that he will revert back to an orthodox 4-4-2 formation in the return leg.
The formation uses 2 strikers, 4 midfielders, and 4 defenders.
Phil Younghusband and Guirado are expected to partner in attack, while Chieffy Caligdong and James Younghusband will be on the midfield's left and right flanks.
The 2 central midfield pivots will be Schrock and either Manuel Ott or Jason de Jong. Meanwhile, defenders Borromeo, Rob Gier, Anton del Rosario, and Ray Anthony Jónsson are expected to hold the fort as the Azkals' back 4.
The formation did wonders for the Philippines in the 4-0 mauling of Sri Lanka, but is untested against higher-ranked opponents like Kuwait.
The onus is on the Azkals to score goals against Kuwait, and a 4-4-2 formation with 2 strikers up front will give them more attacking options and opportunities.
It will be a welcome sight for Phil Younghusband, who was going up against 2 or more defenders by his lonesome during the Kuwait watch.
However, the 2 Azkals strikers on their own won't be able to take on Kuwait's 4 defenders. Support must come both from the midfield and the fullbacks.
The 4-4-2 will provide a better link-up between the forwards and the midfielders on the wing who may choose to cut inside and join the attack like what Caligdong often does when he scores for the Philippines.
If Caligdong plays narrow again and James Younghusband sprays passes deep from right midfield, as he often does, Weiss should use Del Rosario and Jonsson to exploit the spaces left behind by their teammates on the flanks.
The fullbacks should provide width and bomb forward instead of waiting for Kuwait's attacks to come. Having the 2 fullbacks pushing forward will overload Kuwait's flanks and pin back its wingers, who will be forced to defend.
Any gap created by one of the fullbacks bombing forward should be filled in any one of the 2 central midfielders, who can drop deep to support the defense. Schrock, De Jong, or Ott can act as insurance policies if the Azkals lose possession and one of the fullbacks is too far forward to quickly return back to defend.
In the modern game, fullbacks attacking the flanks and providing width are essential for teams in overwhelming a stubborn defense and even changing the outcome of matches.
Football aficionados can remember the impact that Barcelona rightback Juliano Belleti made against Arsenal in the 2006 UEFA Champions League final, Tottenham Hotspur leftback Gareth Bale against Inter Milan over 2 legs in 2010, and Manchester United leftback Patrice Evra against everyone the Red Devils face.
A clean sheet against Kuwait?
Aside from scoring at least 4 goals in the return leg, the Azkals also face the daunting task of preventing their opponents from scoring.
In the first leg, much attention was given to Al-Mutwa. If the Philippines wants to keep a clean sheet, similar attention should also be given to the Kuwaiti's teammates who link up with him in attacks.
Creating scoring opportunities for his teammates, instead being an out-and-out goalscorer, is Al-Mutwa's style of play.
Thus, putting 2 men to cover him everytime he gets the ball would play to Kuwait's advantage, as he can simply pass it to a teammate running the channels.
Kuwait also loves to counterattack using long balls, as shown in the first leg.
The Philippines tried to defend against the counter by sitting deep, which resulted in disaster for the visiting XI.
Instead of defending deep against counterattacks, the Azkals's back 4 may push their defensive line higher and use the offside trap to shut down Kuwait's long balls.
The offside trap and a higher defensive line are also effective if accompanied by a high press, with Kuwait's players being closed down as soon as they recieve the ball instead of allowing them to carry and pass it with leisure.
Kuwait's defenders and midfielders being closed down while they are still on their side of their pitch may result either in errors and misplaced passes, which could translate to scoring opportunities for the Azkals even against the run of play.
Denying Kuwait's central midfielders possession of the ball also throws a monkey wrench into their attacks. They will be forced to rush passing the ball to their defenders or clearing the ball for an Azkals throw-in, instead of making crossfield passes to forwards and wingers with accuracy.
Playing for possession
Compared to a 4-5-1, a 4-4-2 formation is designed for teams to retain the ball to create scoring opportunities instead of relying too much on counterattacks.
Although it has weaknesses, such as the midfield sometimes overwhelmed by opposing players, it is a balanced formation that provides great flexibility.
The Azkals can attack from the left through Chieffy, if James Younghusband finds a gridlock on the right wing and- vice-versa. If both flanks are blocked, a Schrock through-ball or a dribble through the middle may open Kuwait's defense.
A 4-4-2 may quickly switch to either a bold 4-2-4 or even a 2-4-4, from defense to offense, depending on opportunities during the match.
However, key to an effective use of the formation is possession of the ball. It is not effective if Kuwait will be allowed to hold the ball and control the tempo for most of the match.
One can't score a goal if one does not have the ball.
Using a 4-4-2 formation and with millions of their supporters watching at the Rizal Memorial Stadium and on television, the Azkals can pull off a bigger shock than the miracle in Vietnam last year.
However, the right strategy must be accompanied by the right tactics, and execution must follow theory. Form follows function, architect Louis Sullivan once said.
Azkals to change tactics at home to upset Kuwait
By ROY MOORE - GMA News
In Thursday night's match against Kuwait, the odds are stacked against the Philippine team, ranked 67 places lower than their opponent in the FIFA World Rankings. The Azkals lost in the first leg of the qualifiers in Kuwait, 3-0.
The three-goal deficit is a mountain to climb, and as the scores of both games are added together to determine the winner on aggregate, to win by the same 3-0 score-line would take the tie into extra time. Should the scores remain the same after 30 minutes of extra time, penalties will decide who continues to the next round.
Winning by four goals, however, would see the Philippines go through to the next round. A win by two goals or less, a draw or a loss to Kuwait would mean Kuwait will qualify for the third round of AFC World Cup Qualification.
Palami hopeful
While it's a tall order for the Philippines to qualify, manager Dan Palami refuses to give up hope, noting that the team has come a long way in a short time.
“We will look to press the game and beat Kuwait. Even if we don’t win by four goals, it would mean we would get the points to climb higher in the FIFA rankings," said Palami.
Keeping things in perspective, any win on Thursday would still be a big upset for a nation ranked 31st in Asia. A victory would represent a huge advance for Philippine football and would send a strong signal to the region, bearing in mind that no team in Southeast Asia is ranked above Kuwait.
With their possession-based passing style, Kuwait will look to counter the high defensive line of the Azkals and play through balls to split the defense.
Borromeo and Schrock back on defense
The Azkals will be boosted by the return of team captain Aly Borromeo and Stephan Schrock who were both suspended from the first leg. With Rob Gier and Borromeo reunited in the center of the defense, the team can push forward to pressure Kuwait - a dangerous tactic given Kuwait’s ability to counter-attack, but a necessary risk given the deficit from the first leg.
Expected to play the same formation to press a lot higher, the team will look to channel the play through James Younghusband and Chieffy Caligdong on the wings who will both be given much more license to attack- a problem in the first leg, as the wingers needed to defend more to limit Kuwait’s chances at home. In front of their home crowd, the Azkals can now press high and pressure Kuwait.
Stephan Schrock also has the ability to pull the strings in the midfield. Though normally a right-sided defender for German Club SpVgg Greuther Fürth in the 2nd Bundesliga, Germany’s second highest league, he has the ability to be a play-maker, creating chances for both Angel Guirado and Phil Younghusband who occupy the attacking positions. Evidenced in his last outing for the Azkals- a man-of-the-match performance against Sri Lanka- Stephan Schrock is the man to watch for this game.
Team transformation
A 3-0 loss against a team like Kuwait was once already considered a moral victory.
With the infusion of talented foreign players with Filipino blood, coupled with greater financial support, the Philippine team has been transformed.
The Azkals could have even taken the lead against Kuwait, with either Phil Younghusband’s one-on-one opportunity, which Kuwaiti goalkeeper al-Khaldi saved brilliantly, or Angel Guirado’s thunderous header which rattled the crossbar from the resulting corner.
Kuwait's 20-year-old Yousef Nasser stole the ball in front of the Azkals’ defense to score in the 17th minute. Phil Younghusband came close to equalizing fifteen minutes later when his shot looked destined for the top corner of the goal, until al-Khaldi got just enough on the ball to tip it onto the crossbar. After two great saves and a stroke of bad luck, the Philippines were three times just inches away from scoring a precious away goal.
Formation
The team is expected to line up with a 4-2-3-1 formation, playing plenty of passes through the middle and to the wings and avoiding the long-ball style which characterizes the domestic league of the Philippines, the UFL.
Having worked extensively on a more fluid system, the team will look to press high up the pitch and the defensive line will look to catch the Kuwaiti players offside rather than lie back and try to tackle and steal the ball to counter-attack. As such, here is the predicted lineup:
Goalkeeper: Etheridge
Center back: Borromeo/Gier
Right back: Del Rosario
Left back: Jonsson
Center midfield: Schrock/Ott
Left midfield: Caligdong
Right midfield: J. Younghusband
Second striker: Guirado
Center forward/ striker: P. Younghusband
12th man: the Kaholeros
The team at home will be boosted not just by players returning from suspension but thousands in the home crowd, including the Azkals' own fanatical cheering squad, the Kaholeros. It's said that the recently converted to a cause are among the most enthusiastic devotees. So it is with the Philippines' football fever.
In Thursday night's match against Kuwait, the odds are stacked against the Philippine team, ranked 67 places lower than their opponent in the FIFA World Rankings. The Azkals lost in the first leg of the qualifiers in Kuwait, 3-0.
The three-goal deficit is a mountain to climb, and as the scores of both games are added together to determine the winner on aggregate, to win by the same 3-0 score-line would take the tie into extra time. Should the scores remain the same after 30 minutes of extra time, penalties will decide who continues to the next round.
Winning by four goals, however, would see the Philippines go through to the next round. A win by two goals or less, a draw or a loss to Kuwait would mean Kuwait will qualify for the third round of AFC World Cup Qualification.
Palami hopeful
While it's a tall order for the Philippines to qualify, manager Dan Palami refuses to give up hope, noting that the team has come a long way in a short time.
“We will look to press the game and beat Kuwait. Even if we don’t win by four goals, it would mean we would get the points to climb higher in the FIFA rankings," said Palami.
Keeping things in perspective, any win on Thursday would still be a big upset for a nation ranked 31st in Asia. A victory would represent a huge advance for Philippine football and would send a strong signal to the region, bearing in mind that no team in Southeast Asia is ranked above Kuwait.
With their possession-based passing style, Kuwait will look to counter the high defensive line of the Azkals and play through balls to split the defense.
Borromeo and Schrock back on defense
The Azkals will be boosted by the return of team captain Aly Borromeo and Stephan Schrock who were both suspended from the first leg. With Rob Gier and Borromeo reunited in the center of the defense, the team can push forward to pressure Kuwait - a dangerous tactic given Kuwait’s ability to counter-attack, but a necessary risk given the deficit from the first leg.
Expected to play the same formation to press a lot higher, the team will look to channel the play through James Younghusband and Chieffy Caligdong on the wings who will both be given much more license to attack- a problem in the first leg, as the wingers needed to defend more to limit Kuwait’s chances at home. In front of their home crowd, the Azkals can now press high and pressure Kuwait.
Stephan Schrock also has the ability to pull the strings in the midfield. Though normally a right-sided defender for German Club SpVgg Greuther Fürth in the 2nd Bundesliga, Germany’s second highest league, he has the ability to be a play-maker, creating chances for both Angel Guirado and Phil Younghusband who occupy the attacking positions. Evidenced in his last outing for the Azkals- a man-of-the-match performance against Sri Lanka- Stephan Schrock is the man to watch for this game.
Team transformation
A 3-0 loss against a team like Kuwait was once already considered a moral victory.
With the infusion of talented foreign players with Filipino blood, coupled with greater financial support, the Philippine team has been transformed.
The Azkals could have even taken the lead against Kuwait, with either Phil Younghusband’s one-on-one opportunity, which Kuwaiti goalkeeper al-Khaldi saved brilliantly, or Angel Guirado’s thunderous header which rattled the crossbar from the resulting corner.
Kuwait's 20-year-old Yousef Nasser stole the ball in front of the Azkals’ defense to score in the 17th minute. Phil Younghusband came close to equalizing fifteen minutes later when his shot looked destined for the top corner of the goal, until al-Khaldi got just enough on the ball to tip it onto the crossbar. After two great saves and a stroke of bad luck, the Philippines were three times just inches away from scoring a precious away goal.
Formation
The team is expected to line up with a 4-2-3-1 formation, playing plenty of passes through the middle and to the wings and avoiding the long-ball style which characterizes the domestic league of the Philippines, the UFL.
Having worked extensively on a more fluid system, the team will look to press high up the pitch and the defensive line will look to catch the Kuwaiti players offside rather than lie back and try to tackle and steal the ball to counter-attack. As such, here is the predicted lineup:
Goalkeeper: Etheridge
Center back: Borromeo/Gier
Right back: Del Rosario
Left back: Jonsson
Center midfield: Schrock/Ott
Left midfield: Caligdong
Right midfield: J. Younghusband
Second striker: Guirado
Center forward/ striker: P. Younghusband
12th man: the Kaholeros
The team at home will be boosted not just by players returning from suspension but thousands in the home crowd, including the Azkals' own fanatical cheering squad, the Kaholeros. It's said that the recently converted to a cause are among the most enthusiastic devotees. So it is with the Philippines' football fever.
Faith continues to fuel Azkals’ campaign
By Cedelf P. Tupas - Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA—The Philippine Azkals have been candid enough to admit that, although they have made big strides over the past few months, they still have a long way to go if they want to compete against the best in Asia.
The team may lack the resources and the talent compared to the finest teams in the continent, but there’s never been a shortage in belief within the team.
The Azkals have even launched the “We Believe” campaign to drum up support for the team.
Stephan Schrock, the influential midfielder who plays in the second division in Germany, had to take a respite from his club duties to join the Azkals for the second leg in Manila tonight despite the Filipinos’ facing a 0-3 deficit against the heavily-favored Kuwait team.
“I would have never come here if I didn’t believe that we can do it,” said Schrock, who picked up two yellow cards against Sri Lanka that forced him out of the first leg in Kuwait last Saturday.
Schrock related how his club, Gruether Fuerth, kept asking why he wanted to return to Manila for the second leg when it seemed that Kuwait all but wrapped up the tie.
“In football, anything can happen,” said Schrock, pointing out his club’s recent result against a team from Frankfurt when they lost 2-3 after taking a 2-0 lead with 20 minutes remaining.
There are lots of reasons why football is called the “Beautiful Game.”
A moment of magic or a second of mediocrity can alter results. A loss of concentration even for a second could lead to a goal. The crossbar can separate the good from the great and to some extent, it was the case in the first leg at the Mohammed Al-Hammad Stadium in Kuwait where both Angel Guirado and Phil Younghusband got denied a goal each by the bar.
Brutal football
“The three goals we gave up in Kuwait shows how brutal football can be,” said Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss.
Homegrown talents like Chieffy Caligdong, Roel Gener and Ian Araneta, who endured the pain of absorbing heavy losses to Asian powerhouses in the past, believe the tie is not lost yet.
“We know it’s difficult, but now is not the time to lose faith in ourselves and in our team,” said Caligdong, who skippered the team in the first leg of the tie in the absence of Aly Borromeo.
Gener and Araneta said the Azkals always relish the underdog label.
“That’s the beauty of the team when we are done, we never lose hope,” said Araneta.
The Azkals’ late goals have been the best proof of their never-say-die spirit. Down 0-1 against Timor Leste in the 2004 Tiger Cup, the Azkals drew firepower from Chieffy Caligdong in the final minutes to hammer out a dramatic 2-1 win, their first victory in the Tiger Cup. Last year in the Long Teng Cup, Araneta banged in a 92nd minute equalizer against Chinese-Taipei. The Azkals fought back from two goals down to tie Laos and equalized against Singapore right at the death in the Suzuki Cup.
Raised standards
But with the sport gaining ground in the Philippines, the standards have also been raised for the Azkals.
Weiss said the set up should improve for a team which has no established national league and has almost always been relying on players plying their trade abroad who only join the team a few days before tournaments.
Weiss said the team still has a lot of potential and given another year, would have had a better chance of getting past Kuwait.
“Everyone must remember that we are not a super team yet,” Weiss said, putting the Azkals’ success in perspective. “We know people have the right to criticize, but we ask for understanding that we have a long way to go.”
The German coach still longs for the day when he could have all of the talented Filipino players based in Europe and the best homegrown talents in a camp and just hone them into one cohesive unit.
For now though the Azkals will have to summon the belief that has taken them so far the past few months.
“If we leave everything on the field for the flag, then who knows what could happen,” said defender Rob Gier.
MANILA—The Philippine Azkals have been candid enough to admit that, although they have made big strides over the past few months, they still have a long way to go if they want to compete against the best in Asia.
The team may lack the resources and the talent compared to the finest teams in the continent, but there’s never been a shortage in belief within the team.
The Azkals have even launched the “We Believe” campaign to drum up support for the team.
Stephan Schrock, the influential midfielder who plays in the second division in Germany, had to take a respite from his club duties to join the Azkals for the second leg in Manila tonight despite the Filipinos’ facing a 0-3 deficit against the heavily-favored Kuwait team.
“I would have never come here if I didn’t believe that we can do it,” said Schrock, who picked up two yellow cards against Sri Lanka that forced him out of the first leg in Kuwait last Saturday.
Schrock related how his club, Gruether Fuerth, kept asking why he wanted to return to Manila for the second leg when it seemed that Kuwait all but wrapped up the tie.
“In football, anything can happen,” said Schrock, pointing out his club’s recent result against a team from Frankfurt when they lost 2-3 after taking a 2-0 lead with 20 minutes remaining.
There are lots of reasons why football is called the “Beautiful Game.”
A moment of magic or a second of mediocrity can alter results. A loss of concentration even for a second could lead to a goal. The crossbar can separate the good from the great and to some extent, it was the case in the first leg at the Mohammed Al-Hammad Stadium in Kuwait where both Angel Guirado and Phil Younghusband got denied a goal each by the bar.
Brutal football
“The three goals we gave up in Kuwait shows how brutal football can be,” said Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss.
Homegrown talents like Chieffy Caligdong, Roel Gener and Ian Araneta, who endured the pain of absorbing heavy losses to Asian powerhouses in the past, believe the tie is not lost yet.
“We know it’s difficult, but now is not the time to lose faith in ourselves and in our team,” said Caligdong, who skippered the team in the first leg of the tie in the absence of Aly Borromeo.
Gener and Araneta said the Azkals always relish the underdog label.
“That’s the beauty of the team when we are done, we never lose hope,” said Araneta.
The Azkals’ late goals have been the best proof of their never-say-die spirit. Down 0-1 against Timor Leste in the 2004 Tiger Cup, the Azkals drew firepower from Chieffy Caligdong in the final minutes to hammer out a dramatic 2-1 win, their first victory in the Tiger Cup. Last year in the Long Teng Cup, Araneta banged in a 92nd minute equalizer against Chinese-Taipei. The Azkals fought back from two goals down to tie Laos and equalized against Singapore right at the death in the Suzuki Cup.
Raised standards
But with the sport gaining ground in the Philippines, the standards have also been raised for the Azkals.
Weiss said the set up should improve for a team which has no established national league and has almost always been relying on players plying their trade abroad who only join the team a few days before tournaments.
Weiss said the team still has a lot of potential and given another year, would have had a better chance of getting past Kuwait.
“Everyone must remember that we are not a super team yet,” Weiss said, putting the Azkals’ success in perspective. “We know people have the right to criticize, but we ask for understanding that we have a long way to go.”
The German coach still longs for the day when he could have all of the talented Filipino players based in Europe and the best homegrown talents in a camp and just hone them into one cohesive unit.
For now though the Azkals will have to summon the belief that has taken them so far the past few months.
“If we leave everything on the field for the flag, then who knows what could happen,” said defender Rob Gier.
PHL drops to 162 in FIFA rankings on eve of Azkals match against Kuwait
By Earl Victor Rosero with Renee Fopalan - GMA News
On the eve of the toughest match of the men's national football team, the Philippines saw its FIFA World Ranking slip three rungs to 162 from 159 based on the tally released on Wednesday.
The latest tally included the result of the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers (WCQ) match where the Philippines suffered a 3-0 defeat to Kuwait, which climbed seven notches to 95th from 102nd in the ranking. The highest ranking Kuwait ever reached was 24th in 1998.
A comparison of the rankings of Kuwait and the Philippines over the past six months showed the Al-Azraq on a slightly rising path while the Azkals slightly lost ground, while picking up 12 FIFA points.
The Philippines' current rank is also partly the result of gains other countries made in recent tournaments. Bahamas moved up 45 places to 152. Maldives, with a population of only about 300,000 is at 160. Mongolia rose 16 places to 163 and Aruba advanced 32 spots to 168.
Kuwait respects Azkals
Rick Olivares, media officer of the WCQ local organizing committee, who was in Kuwait to witness that away match at the Qadsia Club Stadium, said some fans of the Al-Azraq expected a much worse outcome, like a 10-0 win, against the Philippine team.
Goran Tefugdzic, coach of the Kuwait side, said at the pre-match news conference Wednesday at the Rizal stadium, that coming from Sunday's match he now has "respect for the Filipino team."
The Serbian coach had acknowledged back in Kuwait that the Philippine Azkals exploited gaps in the formation of the Al-Azraq in the early part of the Round 2 WCQ match.
Olivares added some of the respect Kuwaitis have for the Azkals is partly the result of the strong support Filipino expatriates showed at the Qadsia Stadium. He said that "conservatively" 65 percent of the some 26,000 people who packed the venue were Filipinos.
Olivares recalled the goosebumps he felt when those thousands of Filipinos sung the Philippine national anthem in unison.
Reality bites
Azkals coach Michael Weiss acknowledged that they were "punished" for some lapses against the more experienced Al-Azraq, but he promised that Thursday's second duel with Kuwait will be different with the return of team captain Aly Borromeo and midfielder Stephan Schrock.
Weiss expects Borromeo to give stability to the backline and Schrock to create opportunities with his "pro-active" offense. Schrock is a second division Bundesliga midfielder in Germany while Borromeo is a veteran member of the national team.
The German coach had glowing praise for Neil Etheridge although the ball went past him and into the goal three times. Weiss recalled Kuwait's "unusual" second goal and admitted that the Azkals were "tired" by the time the Al-Azraq dealt the third blow.
Weiss again appealed for understanding and said he is open to criticism, which he got a lot of during and after the away match in Kuwait.
He got some of it in the form of a question about whether he will consider sending in substitutes so fresh legs can match up against the Al-Azraq. Weiss said it will depend on how Thursday's match develops.
Weiss explained that it will take years for the Philippine team to reach the level Kuwait is at now. He assured that the Azkals' morale is high and "they get along very well."
Weiss has said whatever the outcome Thursday, the Azkals will prepare for more international matches in the months ahead.
The Azkals have never made it this far in a World Cup cycle while Kuwait has played in the main draw of the FIFA World Cup, qualifying in the 1982 edition in Spain.
The Azkals won their eight home games since 2006 while Kuwait has won its last eight matches.
Rain falls on Rizal stadium
"The main storm will be at kick-off," Azkals captain Aly Borromeo said alluding to the intensity the team intends to bring onto the pitch against Kuwait.
"I did take some notes," Borromeo said, referring to his having to sit at the grandstand to observe the away match because he had to serve the one-game suspension he got from Round 1 of the WCQ.
Borromeo said the perspective he got will certainly influence how he will play Thursday night.
The stormy weather that has battered Metro Manila has been one of the top-of-mind concerns of the competing teams, their fans and the media who will cover the Round 2 WCQ match.
Olivares said that the referee coordinator and the match commissioner will decide on the condition of the pitch. "If the match will be abandoned, it will be played the next day."
The Al-Azraq's coach discounted the weather factor. He said his team is familiar with downpours. "We have two to three months of rain in Kuwait," said Tefugdzic.
No more tickets, raincoat advisory
Olivares said no more tickets will be available because they are all sold out. Some fans said on Facebook said they will just watch the game on television.
For the lucky ones who got the coveted tickets, the WCQ local organizing committee stressed that "no umbrellas will be allowed inside" the stadium during the game.
To avoid getting drenched again, Olivares said spectators ought to bring raincoats when they troop to the Rizal stadium Thursday.
Last July 3, thousands of Azkals fans seated in the bleachers sections got soaked when passing dark clouds dumped rain during the match between national teams of the Philippines and Sri Lanka.
Both umbrellas and laser pens are on the list of banned items at football matches. The complete list is on the website of the PFF ticket retailer, TicketWorld.
On the eve of the toughest match of the men's national football team, the Philippines saw its FIFA World Ranking slip three rungs to 162 from 159 based on the tally released on Wednesday.
The latest tally included the result of the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers (WCQ) match where the Philippines suffered a 3-0 defeat to Kuwait, which climbed seven notches to 95th from 102nd in the ranking. The highest ranking Kuwait ever reached was 24th in 1998.
A comparison of the rankings of Kuwait and the Philippines over the past six months showed the Al-Azraq on a slightly rising path while the Azkals slightly lost ground, while picking up 12 FIFA points.
The Philippines' current rank is also partly the result of gains other countries made in recent tournaments. Bahamas moved up 45 places to 152. Maldives, with a population of only about 300,000 is at 160. Mongolia rose 16 places to 163 and Aruba advanced 32 spots to 168.
Kuwait respects Azkals
Rick Olivares, media officer of the WCQ local organizing committee, who was in Kuwait to witness that away match at the Qadsia Club Stadium, said some fans of the Al-Azraq expected a much worse outcome, like a 10-0 win, against the Philippine team.
Goran Tefugdzic, coach of the Kuwait side, said at the pre-match news conference Wednesday at the Rizal stadium, that coming from Sunday's match he now has "respect for the Filipino team."
The Serbian coach had acknowledged back in Kuwait that the Philippine Azkals exploited gaps in the formation of the Al-Azraq in the early part of the Round 2 WCQ match.
Olivares added some of the respect Kuwaitis have for the Azkals is partly the result of the strong support Filipino expatriates showed at the Qadsia Stadium. He said that "conservatively" 65 percent of the some 26,000 people who packed the venue were Filipinos.
Olivares recalled the goosebumps he felt when those thousands of Filipinos sung the Philippine national anthem in unison.
Reality bites
Azkals coach Michael Weiss acknowledged that they were "punished" for some lapses against the more experienced Al-Azraq, but he promised that Thursday's second duel with Kuwait will be different with the return of team captain Aly Borromeo and midfielder Stephan Schrock.
Weiss expects Borromeo to give stability to the backline and Schrock to create opportunities with his "pro-active" offense. Schrock is a second division Bundesliga midfielder in Germany while Borromeo is a veteran member of the national team.
The German coach had glowing praise for Neil Etheridge although the ball went past him and into the goal three times. Weiss recalled Kuwait's "unusual" second goal and admitted that the Azkals were "tired" by the time the Al-Azraq dealt the third blow.
Weiss again appealed for understanding and said he is open to criticism, which he got a lot of during and after the away match in Kuwait.
He got some of it in the form of a question about whether he will consider sending in substitutes so fresh legs can match up against the Al-Azraq. Weiss said it will depend on how Thursday's match develops.
Weiss explained that it will take years for the Philippine team to reach the level Kuwait is at now. He assured that the Azkals' morale is high and "they get along very well."
Weiss has said whatever the outcome Thursday, the Azkals will prepare for more international matches in the months ahead.
The Azkals have never made it this far in a World Cup cycle while Kuwait has played in the main draw of the FIFA World Cup, qualifying in the 1982 edition in Spain.
The Azkals won their eight home games since 2006 while Kuwait has won its last eight matches.
Rain falls on Rizal stadium
"The main storm will be at kick-off," Azkals captain Aly Borromeo said alluding to the intensity the team intends to bring onto the pitch against Kuwait.
"I did take some notes," Borromeo said, referring to his having to sit at the grandstand to observe the away match because he had to serve the one-game suspension he got from Round 1 of the WCQ.
Borromeo said the perspective he got will certainly influence how he will play Thursday night.
The stormy weather that has battered Metro Manila has been one of the top-of-mind concerns of the competing teams, their fans and the media who will cover the Round 2 WCQ match.
Olivares said that the referee coordinator and the match commissioner will decide on the condition of the pitch. "If the match will be abandoned, it will be played the next day."
The Al-Azraq's coach discounted the weather factor. He said his team is familiar with downpours. "We have two to three months of rain in Kuwait," said Tefugdzic.
No more tickets, raincoat advisory
Olivares said no more tickets will be available because they are all sold out. Some fans said on Facebook said they will just watch the game on television.
For the lucky ones who got the coveted tickets, the WCQ local organizing committee stressed that "no umbrellas will be allowed inside" the stadium during the game.
To avoid getting drenched again, Olivares said spectators ought to bring raincoats when they troop to the Rizal stadium Thursday.
Last July 3, thousands of Azkals fans seated in the bleachers sections got soaked when passing dark clouds dumped rain during the match between national teams of the Philippines and Sri Lanka.
Both umbrellas and laser pens are on the list of banned items at football matches. The complete list is on the website of the PFF ticket retailer, TicketWorld.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Azkals look to bounce back vs Kuwait
Report from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN News
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals left immediately for Manila right after their game against Kuwait at the Qadsia Stadium.
The Azkals lost the 1st leg of the 2nd round World Cup qualifier, 3-0, and are looking to bounce back at home.
The players were disappointed at their inability to score a goal against Kuwait, despite having 3 golden opportunities in the 1st half.
Strikers Phil Younghusband and Anghel Guirado each had a chance to score for the Azkals.
"I'm still disappointed," Younghusband said.
Their 1st half performance was one of the best seen from the Azkals, especially against a much higher ranked Kuwaiti team.
But they had hoped to have a closer goal differential going into their home game in Manila.
"The game is not over, it's only the halftime," said goal keeper Neil Etheridge.
"I think we've taken big strides and big steps in football for the Philippines, and we need to give ourselves a pat in the back," he added.
The Azkals now face a difficult task on Thursday, as they need to win by at least 3-0 in order to have a shot at advancing to the next round.
But they are keeping their hopes up and promise to give their all in their upcoming game.
"We have to focus for 90 minutes, not only 60," Rob Gier said. "That's the thing we have to do in the next game."
The team had a lay-over in Dubai from Kuwait, and it was a 9-hour flight from Dubai to Manila.
But the Azkals are happy to be home and will have a day-off tomorrow.
On Tuesday, they resume practice and will also go back to studying the game tape.
They will also welcome back Stephan Schrock and Aly Borromeo, the 2 players who served 1-game suspensions after incurring 2 yellow cards each in the series against Sri Lanka.
Azkals Coach Michael Weiss says that having Schrock and Borromeo back on the team makes the Azkals considerably stronger.
"I think that will give us a big boost," Weiss said. "That (the suspensions) was one of the major reasons why we did not get a better result."
The Azkals also wish to extend their appreciation to all the Filipino fans who went out of their way to support the national football team.
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals left immediately for Manila right after their game against Kuwait at the Qadsia Stadium.
The Azkals lost the 1st leg of the 2nd round World Cup qualifier, 3-0, and are looking to bounce back at home.
The players were disappointed at their inability to score a goal against Kuwait, despite having 3 golden opportunities in the 1st half.
Strikers Phil Younghusband and Anghel Guirado each had a chance to score for the Azkals.
"I'm still disappointed," Younghusband said.
Their 1st half performance was one of the best seen from the Azkals, especially against a much higher ranked Kuwaiti team.
But they had hoped to have a closer goal differential going into their home game in Manila.
"The game is not over, it's only the halftime," said goal keeper Neil Etheridge.
"I think we've taken big strides and big steps in football for the Philippines, and we need to give ourselves a pat in the back," he added.
The Azkals now face a difficult task on Thursday, as they need to win by at least 3-0 in order to have a shot at advancing to the next round.
But they are keeping their hopes up and promise to give their all in their upcoming game.
"We have to focus for 90 minutes, not only 60," Rob Gier said. "That's the thing we have to do in the next game."
The team had a lay-over in Dubai from Kuwait, and it was a 9-hour flight from Dubai to Manila.
But the Azkals are happy to be home and will have a day-off tomorrow.
On Tuesday, they resume practice and will also go back to studying the game tape.
They will also welcome back Stephan Schrock and Aly Borromeo, the 2 players who served 1-game suspensions after incurring 2 yellow cards each in the series against Sri Lanka.
Azkals Coach Michael Weiss says that having Schrock and Borromeo back on the team makes the Azkals considerably stronger.
"I think that will give us a big boost," Weiss said. "That (the suspensions) was one of the major reasons why we did not get a better result."
The Azkals also wish to extend their appreciation to all the Filipino fans who went out of their way to support the national football team.
Stephan Schrock to rejoin Azkals for second leg against Kuwait
By Cedelf P. Tupas - Philippine Daily Inquirer
KUWAIT CITY—Filipino-German standout Stephan Schrock will return to Manila to give the Philippine Azkals more midfield bite in their second round World Cup Qualifying clash against powerhouse Kuwait.
Azkals manager Dan Palami confirmed that Schrock, who was suspended for the first leg, will be arriving tomorrow, two days before the return match against the Kuwaitis at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
“He will be a big boost to the team,” Palami said of Schrock, who was a key figure in the first-round win over Sri Lanka.
Schrock’s presence is vital for the Azkals, who may continue to miss the services of midfielders Paul Mulders (injury) and Jerry Lucena (club commitments).
Aly Borromeo is also expected to return after serving his suspension. He was seen taking notes during the first game against Kuwait from the grandstand.
Palami agreed with coach Michael Weiss that the 0-3 deficit may be too big to overcome on aggregate. But the two Azkals officials remain hopeful of an upset.
“We have a tough job in Manila because of that 0-3 deficit,” said Palami. “If only we could have a complete lineup for Manila.”
“Anything is still possible if we get an early goal and with the crowd behind us,” said Weiss.
KUWAIT CITY—Filipino-German standout Stephan Schrock will return to Manila to give the Philippine Azkals more midfield bite in their second round World Cup Qualifying clash against powerhouse Kuwait.
Azkals manager Dan Palami confirmed that Schrock, who was suspended for the first leg, will be arriving tomorrow, two days before the return match against the Kuwaitis at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
“He will be a big boost to the team,” Palami said of Schrock, who was a key figure in the first-round win over Sri Lanka.
Schrock’s presence is vital for the Azkals, who may continue to miss the services of midfielders Paul Mulders (injury) and Jerry Lucena (club commitments).
Aly Borromeo is also expected to return after serving his suspension. He was seen taking notes during the first game against Kuwait from the grandstand.
Palami agreed with coach Michael Weiss that the 0-3 deficit may be too big to overcome on aggregate. But the two Azkals officials remain hopeful of an upset.
“We have a tough job in Manila because of that 0-3 deficit,” said Palami. “If only we could have a complete lineup for Manila.”
“Anything is still possible if we get an early goal and with the crowd behind us,” said Weiss.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Philippine Azkals bow to Kuwait
By Cedelf P. Tupas - Philippine Daily Inquirer
HAWALLI—Unable to build on a stellar yet unlucky first half performance, the Philippine Azkals fell in a 0-3 defeat to Middle East powerhouse Kuwait in the opening leg of their second round World Cup Qualifying duel here.
The Al-Azraq backed up their pedigree with a solid attacking display to thump the hard-fighting Filipinos, who had two shots that hit the crossbar in the first 30 minutes.
The second leg is slated Thursday night at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila with the Azkals needing to win by four goals or more to make the third round for the first time.
“Anything is still possible in the second leg,” said Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss.
“This time it’s not over. We still have 90 minutes in Manila,” said Kuwait coach Goran Tufegdzic.
There was no doubting the Kuwaitis’ dominance on this night, though.
Yousef Naser opened the scoring, before goals from Mesad Nasa and Fahed El-Ibrahim sealed the victory for the Kuwaitis, who are now well-positioned to reach the third round following the comprehensive win.
The Azkals, who missed skipper Aly Borromeo and Stephan Schrock due to suspension, put up a solid, resolute stand in the first half to stifle a Kuwaiti attack, but were unlucky to concede and also not get on the scoresheet, with Phil Younghusband and Angel Guirado both getting golden chances to score in the opening 30 minutes.
Looking to finish off a quick counter-attacking move, Younghusband drew a diving save from Nawaf Al Khaldi on a one-on-one, setting up the corner that nearly gave Guirado the first goal.
But the Fil-Spanish striker headed Chieffy Caligdong’s corner to the crossbar and Jason Sabio’s header was cleared off the line by Hussain Fadhel.
The chances only woke up the Kuwaitis, who within seconds, finally grabbed the lead thanks to young striker Yousef Naser.
Fahad Al-Enezi, the right winger, who had proven to be a menace on attack, beat Manny Ott and Chieffy Caligdong to cross for Yousef, who banged the header into the bottom corner past the flailing arms of Neil Etheridge.
The Al-Azraq’s possession play was still negated by some resolute defending by the Azkals and on the counter, the visitors came close again in the 30th minute.
Anton del Rosario launched a long throw from the backline to Guirado, whose lofted ball found a rushing Younghusband on the run.
Finding space to shoot, Younghusband rifled a thunderous shot from just outside the area, forcing another reflex save from Al-Khaldi and the slightest of touches allowed the ball to ricochet off the crossbar again.
The tide began to change in the second half when the Al-Azraq put more pressure on the defensive line from the left flank, leading to several corner kicks and half-chances.
The pressure paid off in the 66th minute when defender Mesad Nada poked the ball home during a scramble in the box after his header off a corner was blocked.
The Al-Azraq’s pattern of dominance continued and with five minutes remaining with the Azkals growing weary, Fahed El-Ibrahim fired a shot from 20 yards to beat Etheridge.
The score would have been a little more lopsided if not for a couple of close range stops from Etheridge, who flew in from England on the eve of the match.
HAWALLI—Unable to build on a stellar yet unlucky first half performance, the Philippine Azkals fell in a 0-3 defeat to Middle East powerhouse Kuwait in the opening leg of their second round World Cup Qualifying duel here.
The Al-Azraq backed up their pedigree with a solid attacking display to thump the hard-fighting Filipinos, who had two shots that hit the crossbar in the first 30 minutes.
The second leg is slated Thursday night at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila with the Azkals needing to win by four goals or more to make the third round for the first time.
“Anything is still possible in the second leg,” said Azkals coach Hans Michael Weiss.
“This time it’s not over. We still have 90 minutes in Manila,” said Kuwait coach Goran Tufegdzic.
There was no doubting the Kuwaitis’ dominance on this night, though.
Yousef Naser opened the scoring, before goals from Mesad Nasa and Fahed El-Ibrahim sealed the victory for the Kuwaitis, who are now well-positioned to reach the third round following the comprehensive win.
The Azkals, who missed skipper Aly Borromeo and Stephan Schrock due to suspension, put up a solid, resolute stand in the first half to stifle a Kuwaiti attack, but were unlucky to concede and also not get on the scoresheet, with Phil Younghusband and Angel Guirado both getting golden chances to score in the opening 30 minutes.
Looking to finish off a quick counter-attacking move, Younghusband drew a diving save from Nawaf Al Khaldi on a one-on-one, setting up the corner that nearly gave Guirado the first goal.
But the Fil-Spanish striker headed Chieffy Caligdong’s corner to the crossbar and Jason Sabio’s header was cleared off the line by Hussain Fadhel.
The chances only woke up the Kuwaitis, who within seconds, finally grabbed the lead thanks to young striker Yousef Naser.
Fahad Al-Enezi, the right winger, who had proven to be a menace on attack, beat Manny Ott and Chieffy Caligdong to cross for Yousef, who banged the header into the bottom corner past the flailing arms of Neil Etheridge.
The Al-Azraq’s possession play was still negated by some resolute defending by the Azkals and on the counter, the visitors came close again in the 30th minute.
Anton del Rosario launched a long throw from the backline to Guirado, whose lofted ball found a rushing Younghusband on the run.
Finding space to shoot, Younghusband rifled a thunderous shot from just outside the area, forcing another reflex save from Al-Khaldi and the slightest of touches allowed the ball to ricochet off the crossbar again.
The tide began to change in the second half when the Al-Azraq put more pressure on the defensive line from the left flank, leading to several corner kicks and half-chances.
The pressure paid off in the 66th minute when defender Mesad Nada poked the ball home during a scramble in the box after his header off a corner was blocked.
The Al-Azraq’s pattern of dominance continued and with five minutes remaining with the Azkals growing weary, Fahed El-Ibrahim fired a shot from 20 yards to beat Etheridge.
The score would have been a little more lopsided if not for a couple of close range stops from Etheridge, who flew in from England on the eve of the match.
Azkals rue missed chances vs Kuwait
With a report from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN News
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals were visibly disappointed after their 3-0 loss against Kuwait in the 1st leg of their 2nd round World Cup qualifier, and they rued their missed goal opportunities against the tough Kuwaiti team.
"We actually hit the bar several times," said team manager Dan Palami.
"It's a very sad story actually, we had 3 very good chances in the 1st half," said Azkals coach Michael Weiss.
Phil Younghusband nearly scored for the Philippines in the 1st half of the game, but was denied by the Kuwaiti goal keeper.
"We came here with a goal, and we thought we had it," said defender Jason Sabio. "But we had a couple of unlucky breaks, and we found ourselves down 3-0."
"In the 2nd half, it was one wave after another, and unfortunately, (they scored) a late goal," Coach Weiss said.
Weiss said that if the Azkals had managed to avoid the late goal by the Kuwaitis, a 2-0 final score would have been "a fantastic result."
Tougher job
The Azkals now face an even bigger challenge when they go back to the Philippines for the 2nd leg of the qualifier.
"We have a tougher job back home, but it's not impossible," said Palami.
The Azkals will have to defeat Kuwait 4-0 in order to advance to the 3rd round of the World Cup qualifier.
"In Manila, we will give Kuwait a very tough fight," Weiss promised.
Weiss also welcomed the return of team captain Aly Borromeo and midfielder Stephan Schrock, who were suspended for the 1st leg after incurring 2 yellow cards in the Azkals' 1st round qualifier against Sri Lanka.
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals were visibly disappointed after their 3-0 loss against Kuwait in the 1st leg of their 2nd round World Cup qualifier, and they rued their missed goal opportunities against the tough Kuwaiti team.
"We actually hit the bar several times," said team manager Dan Palami.
"It's a very sad story actually, we had 3 very good chances in the 1st half," said Azkals coach Michael Weiss.
Phil Younghusband nearly scored for the Philippines in the 1st half of the game, but was denied by the Kuwaiti goal keeper.
"We came here with a goal, and we thought we had it," said defender Jason Sabio. "But we had a couple of unlucky breaks, and we found ourselves down 3-0."
"In the 2nd half, it was one wave after another, and unfortunately, (they scored) a late goal," Coach Weiss said.
Weiss said that if the Azkals had managed to avoid the late goal by the Kuwaitis, a 2-0 final score would have been "a fantastic result."
Tougher job
The Azkals now face an even bigger challenge when they go back to the Philippines for the 2nd leg of the qualifier.
"We have a tougher job back home, but it's not impossible," said Palami.
The Azkals will have to defeat Kuwait 4-0 in order to advance to the 3rd round of the World Cup qualifier.
"In Manila, we will give Kuwait a very tough fight," Weiss promised.
Weiss also welcomed the return of team captain Aly Borromeo and midfielder Stephan Schrock, who were suspended for the 1st leg after incurring 2 yellow cards in the Azkals' 1st round qualifier against Sri Lanka.
The Azkals and their counterattacking 4-5-1
By Jojo Malig, abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals will face the toughest opponents they have yet to take on so far on Saturday night.
The match, the first leg of the second round FIFA World Cup qualification tie, is seen as a crucible for the Azkals, as well as their German coach Michael Weiss.
It is an away match for the Filipinos, with Kuwait enjoying the psychological advantage of playing in front of their own countrymen and in a familiar pitch.
With his wards clearly the underdogs against the higher-ranked Kuwait, Weiss -- who had been using an old-school 4-4-2 -- did not hesitate to admit that the Azkals will focus on defense against their hosts.
Weiss has also been less than secretive about the formation that the Azkals will be deployed -- a smash-and-grab, counterattacking 4-5-1.
Midfield battle
The classic 4-5-1 formation uses 4 defenders, 5 midfielders, and a lone striker.
It is primarily used to pack the midfield and prevent the other team from executing their passing game well.
With 5 midfielders in the middle of the pitch, it will be difficult for opponents to pass through the middle, and it will force them to play wide.
Compared to the traditional 4-4-2, the 4-5-1 allows teams to have an extra man in the midfield, who can be asked to man-mark the opposing team's attacking midfielder, creative midfielder, playmaker, or the "in-the-hole" forward who links the midfield with the attack.
Do not expect Samba-type football from teams using the 4-5-1. It is a defensive formation relying on counterattacks and set pieces for the rare scoring opportunities.
Some may see boring, stop-and-go football from both teams as a result of the formation, but those using the 4-5-1 are pragmatists who value either a victory or draw more than entertaining fans.
Football fans who regularly watch the English Premier League are familiar with the formation, as it is often used by lower-ranked teams when they visit Old Trafford or the Kop.
However, even Manchester United and Liverpool are known to use the 4-5-1 (or one of its variations) when playing the UEFA Champions League in an away fixture.
Even "The Special One," Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho, was known for his "defend-first" 4-5-1 formation that quickly becomes a 4-3-3 while he was manager of Champions League-winning Porto and Chelsea.
The classical 4-5-1 has several variations, including the offensive 4-4-1-1 of Arsenal with one attacking midfielder who pushes forward in the hole to link up with the striker, or Manchester United's "continental" 4-2-3-1 with 2 defensive midfielders that allowed the Red Devils in previous season to be unbeaten in away matches in Europe.
Strengths
The main strength of the 4-5-1 is defense.
It allows the back 4 -- the 4 defenders -- to cover the width of the field well, with at least one holding or defensive midfielder providing extra cover.
Having at least one extra midfielder protecting the back 4 also allows the fullbacks (the defenders on the left and right sides of the pitch) to "bomb forward" and link up with wingers on overlapping runs during attacks.
Having at least one holding midfielder will also guard against either surprise counterattacks by the opposing team or having enough men to defend if if the opposing team suddenly pushes forward in numbers.
The 2 wide midfielders or wingers in a 4-5-1 formation also provide width when the team has the ball, allowing them to either "stretch" the opposing team's defense or even pull defenders out of position and create spaces for their teammates to attack.
With 5 midfielders, the formation allows a team to control possession through quick, short passes when they have possession and clog the passing lanes and press ball carriers in defense.
It is also a flexible formation, with a team being able to quickly switch from defense to an attacking 4-3-3 or 4-2-4 formation.
It allows a team to hit on the break.
Weaknesses
The formation's main weakness is it limits a team's attacking options, which translates to fewer goal-scoring chances.
The lone striker, which is often the primary outlet for long balls during counterattacks, may find himself isolated if the midfielders "sit too deep."
He will be prone to either losing or wasting possession if 2 or more defenders gang up on him or use an offside trap.
Having too many players on the middle of the pitch may also result in overcrowding, unless the players properly know how to move without the ball and run channels well.
Having 10 men behind the ball to defend may also result in giving the majority of ball possession to the opposing team.
As previously mentioned, the 4-5-1 is not an ambassador of a free-flowing "beautiful game." A Liverpool-Chelsea clash in the Champions League in 2007, with both teams using the formation, had former Real Madrid coach and World Cup winner Jorge Valdano comparing the match to a "s&#**t hanging from a stick."
Roles to play
If Weiss does use the 4-5-1, expect Phil Younghusband to play the role of lone striker in the formation. He can use his technique and touch to hold the ball up and bring others into play.
If he catches his marker asleep or a defender playing him onside, either a through ball or a long ball to Younghusband may result in a goal for the Azkals if he goes one-on-one with the goalkeeper.
However, he will be in trouble if Kuwait decides to play physical and try to bully him out of the match, as his physique is far from a traditional big, strong, and tall frontman. To prevent Younghusband from being isolated, midfielders must work hard to link up with him, provide themselves as outlets for passes, and create spaces for him to operate.
Chieffy Caligdong will occupy the left midfielder role while James Younghusband will be on the opposite side. On defense, they can be asked to track back and slot into either side of the holding midfielders or centerbacks.
When the Azkals have the ball, they can make forward runs, giving width to the Philippines' attack and stretching Kuwait's defense. They are also potent goalscoring threats -- as Caligdong has shown -- if they make inside runs. If they decide to hug the touchline, the Azkals scoring opportunities will come from crosses from the duo.
Angel Guirado, who normally played a right midfield role in Spain, may occupy the "in-the-hole" attacking midfielder position for the Azkals against Kuwait. He can be a "false forward" who will link up the midfield with Phil Younghusband to create scoring opportunities for his teammate, or switch positions with him to confuse their markers and pull them out of position. He is expected to go forward often and act as a goalscoring threat himself.
With Stephan Schroeck suspended, the roles of central midfield metronome and holding midfielder will most likely fall in the hands of the youngster Manuel Ott and Jason de Jong. Their primary role will be to protect the back 4 by defending against midfielders who push forward or a striker who drops deep. If one of the Azkals defenders is pulled out of position, either Ott or de Jong can fill the hole to retain the back 4's shape.
They will link the defense with the 3 other midfielders when the Azkals have the ball. If Kuwait scores a goal and pulls ahead, expect either Ott or de Jong to push forward and join Guirado in the attacking midfielder role.
The fullbacks -- may they be Ray Anthony Jónsson, Jason Sabio, or someone else -- have the responsibility to both defend and attack depending on how the match pans out. They may sit back to ensure Kuwait's wingers are shut down, or go forward if the Azkals fall behind.
With skipper Aly Borromeo suspended, Anton del Rosario and Rob Gier at centerback should take a more assertive role in ensuring that the defenders do their duty well by stopping the opposition strikers, wingers, and attacking midfielders. Proper communication with Neil Etheridge is also of paramount importance if they want to leave Kuwait with a draw, a clean sheet, or a win.
While odds are stacked against the Azkals carving out a major upset against Kuwait in their opponent's home turf, the best result that they can carry to the second leg at home will be a scoring draw, such as 1-1 or 2-2. At the Rizal Memorial Stadium, it will be anyone's game.
The likes of Japan, South Korea, and Australia will await the Philippines next, if the Azkals should hurdle the Gulf kings Kuwait.
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals will face the toughest opponents they have yet to take on so far on Saturday night.
The match, the first leg of the second round FIFA World Cup qualification tie, is seen as a crucible for the Azkals, as well as their German coach Michael Weiss.
It is an away match for the Filipinos, with Kuwait enjoying the psychological advantage of playing in front of their own countrymen and in a familiar pitch.
With his wards clearly the underdogs against the higher-ranked Kuwait, Weiss -- who had been using an old-school 4-4-2 -- did not hesitate to admit that the Azkals will focus on defense against their hosts.
Weiss has also been less than secretive about the formation that the Azkals will be deployed -- a smash-and-grab, counterattacking 4-5-1.
Midfield battle
The classic 4-5-1 formation uses 4 defenders, 5 midfielders, and a lone striker.
It is primarily used to pack the midfield and prevent the other team from executing their passing game well.
With 5 midfielders in the middle of the pitch, it will be difficult for opponents to pass through the middle, and it will force them to play wide.
Compared to the traditional 4-4-2, the 4-5-1 allows teams to have an extra man in the midfield, who can be asked to man-mark the opposing team's attacking midfielder, creative midfielder, playmaker, or the "in-the-hole" forward who links the midfield with the attack.
Do not expect Samba-type football from teams using the 4-5-1. It is a defensive formation relying on counterattacks and set pieces for the rare scoring opportunities.
Some may see boring, stop-and-go football from both teams as a result of the formation, but those using the 4-5-1 are pragmatists who value either a victory or draw more than entertaining fans.
Football fans who regularly watch the English Premier League are familiar with the formation, as it is often used by lower-ranked teams when they visit Old Trafford or the Kop.
However, even Manchester United and Liverpool are known to use the 4-5-1 (or one of its variations) when playing the UEFA Champions League in an away fixture.
Even "The Special One," Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho, was known for his "defend-first" 4-5-1 formation that quickly becomes a 4-3-3 while he was manager of Champions League-winning Porto and Chelsea.
The classical 4-5-1 has several variations, including the offensive 4-4-1-1 of Arsenal with one attacking midfielder who pushes forward in the hole to link up with the striker, or Manchester United's "continental" 4-2-3-1 with 2 defensive midfielders that allowed the Red Devils in previous season to be unbeaten in away matches in Europe.
Strengths
The main strength of the 4-5-1 is defense.
It allows the back 4 -- the 4 defenders -- to cover the width of the field well, with at least one holding or defensive midfielder providing extra cover.
Having at least one extra midfielder protecting the back 4 also allows the fullbacks (the defenders on the left and right sides of the pitch) to "bomb forward" and link up with wingers on overlapping runs during attacks.
Having at least one holding midfielder will also guard against either surprise counterattacks by the opposing team or having enough men to defend if if the opposing team suddenly pushes forward in numbers.
The 2 wide midfielders or wingers in a 4-5-1 formation also provide width when the team has the ball, allowing them to either "stretch" the opposing team's defense or even pull defenders out of position and create spaces for their teammates to attack.
With 5 midfielders, the formation allows a team to control possession through quick, short passes when they have possession and clog the passing lanes and press ball carriers in defense.
It is also a flexible formation, with a team being able to quickly switch from defense to an attacking 4-3-3 or 4-2-4 formation.
It allows a team to hit on the break.
Weaknesses
The formation's main weakness is it limits a team's attacking options, which translates to fewer goal-scoring chances.
The lone striker, which is often the primary outlet for long balls during counterattacks, may find himself isolated if the midfielders "sit too deep."
He will be prone to either losing or wasting possession if 2 or more defenders gang up on him or use an offside trap.
Having too many players on the middle of the pitch may also result in overcrowding, unless the players properly know how to move without the ball and run channels well.
Having 10 men behind the ball to defend may also result in giving the majority of ball possession to the opposing team.
As previously mentioned, the 4-5-1 is not an ambassador of a free-flowing "beautiful game." A Liverpool-Chelsea clash in the Champions League in 2007, with both teams using the formation, had former Real Madrid coach and World Cup winner Jorge Valdano comparing the match to a "s&#**t hanging from a stick."
Roles to play
If Weiss does use the 4-5-1, expect Phil Younghusband to play the role of lone striker in the formation. He can use his technique and touch to hold the ball up and bring others into play.
If he catches his marker asleep or a defender playing him onside, either a through ball or a long ball to Younghusband may result in a goal for the Azkals if he goes one-on-one with the goalkeeper.
However, he will be in trouble if Kuwait decides to play physical and try to bully him out of the match, as his physique is far from a traditional big, strong, and tall frontman. To prevent Younghusband from being isolated, midfielders must work hard to link up with him, provide themselves as outlets for passes, and create spaces for him to operate.
Chieffy Caligdong will occupy the left midfielder role while James Younghusband will be on the opposite side. On defense, they can be asked to track back and slot into either side of the holding midfielders or centerbacks.
When the Azkals have the ball, they can make forward runs, giving width to the Philippines' attack and stretching Kuwait's defense. They are also potent goalscoring threats -- as Caligdong has shown -- if they make inside runs. If they decide to hug the touchline, the Azkals scoring opportunities will come from crosses from the duo.
Angel Guirado, who normally played a right midfield role in Spain, may occupy the "in-the-hole" attacking midfielder position for the Azkals against Kuwait. He can be a "false forward" who will link up the midfield with Phil Younghusband to create scoring opportunities for his teammate, or switch positions with him to confuse their markers and pull them out of position. He is expected to go forward often and act as a goalscoring threat himself.
With Stephan Schroeck suspended, the roles of central midfield metronome and holding midfielder will most likely fall in the hands of the youngster Manuel Ott and Jason de Jong. Their primary role will be to protect the back 4 by defending against midfielders who push forward or a striker who drops deep. If one of the Azkals defenders is pulled out of position, either Ott or de Jong can fill the hole to retain the back 4's shape.
They will link the defense with the 3 other midfielders when the Azkals have the ball. If Kuwait scores a goal and pulls ahead, expect either Ott or de Jong to push forward and join Guirado in the attacking midfielder role.
The fullbacks -- may they be Ray Anthony Jónsson, Jason Sabio, or someone else -- have the responsibility to both defend and attack depending on how the match pans out. They may sit back to ensure Kuwait's wingers are shut down, or go forward if the Azkals fall behind.
With skipper Aly Borromeo suspended, Anton del Rosario and Rob Gier at centerback should take a more assertive role in ensuring that the defenders do their duty well by stopping the opposition strikers, wingers, and attacking midfielders. Proper communication with Neil Etheridge is also of paramount importance if they want to leave Kuwait with a draw, a clean sheet, or a win.
While odds are stacked against the Azkals carving out a major upset against Kuwait in their opponent's home turf, the best result that they can carry to the second leg at home will be a scoring draw, such as 1-1 or 2-2. At the Rizal Memorial Stadium, it will be anyone's game.
The likes of Japan, South Korea, and Australia will await the Philippines next, if the Azkals should hurdle the Gulf kings Kuwait.
FIFA: Azkals Borromeo, Schrock will not play in away match vs Kuwait
EVR/RAF/OMG, GMA News
FIFA officially barred Azkals team captain Aly Borromeo and midfielder Stephan Schrock from playing against Kuwait in the 2014 World Cup qualifying match this Sunday (Manila time).
The football world-governing body rendered its decision against Borromeo and Schrock despite the Asian Football Federation's (AFC) recommendation to let the Filipinos play.
Borromeo, via his Twitter account, said: "Disheartening news for me that I can't be on the pitch with the boys tomorrow.. But I trust the boys will step up and represent!"
The AFC, through its General Secretary Alex Soosay, sent a letter to FIFA Legal Affairs Director Marco Villiger dated July 18, 2011, recommending that the cautions (yellow cards) dealt to Borromeo and Schrock be cancelled. This was done by the AFC as a response to the Philippine Football Federation's (PFF) appeal based on Article 37 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code:
1. Upon its own initiative or at the request of a confederation, the Disciplinary Committee may cancel cautions that have not resulted in an expulsion so as to restore the balance among several teams that have not played the same number of matches during the first round of a competition, or in other exceptional circumstances.
2. In any case, the committee may do this only once in any competition.
3. The Disciplinary Committee’s decision is final.
The PFF hoped that the football governing bodies would let the two Filipinos play "in the spirit of fair play", given Kuwait is ranked 102nd to the Philippines' 159th.
The decision came Friday, in a letter sent by AFC General Secretary Alex Soosay to Ramon Manuel, General Secretary of the PFF. The letter states:
"Kindly be informed that we were adviced by FIFA to which we agree that Article 37 of the FDC applied only to cautions that have not resulted in an expulsion. Your request however is in regards to the following players; Alexander Borromeo and Stephan Schrock who had received two cautions in two different matches in the first round of the said Qualifiers (against Sri Lanka on 29 June 2011 and 03 July 2011 respectively). This warrants an automatic suspension for the match against Kuwait on 23 July 2011. FIFA had sent out the confirmation letter to your good Federation informing the suspension of the two above-mentioned players.
Therefore Article 37 of the FDC is not applicable in the instant case. As such the two cautions received by each of the above-mentioned players cannot be cancelled and they are suspended for the match against Kuwait on 23 July 2011."
"Unfortunately, we did not get the result we desired. Nevertheless, our team will continue to fight to win and represent the country in a way that will make us all proud to be Filipinos," said Philippine Football Federation Treasurer Bonnie Ladrido.
Borromeo's absence means Chieffy Caligdong will act as captain. Possible replacements are Ray Jonsson, Manuel Ott and Jason de Jong, according to Borromeo. --
FIFA officially barred Azkals team captain Aly Borromeo and midfielder Stephan Schrock from playing against Kuwait in the 2014 World Cup qualifying match this Sunday (Manila time).
The football world-governing body rendered its decision against Borromeo and Schrock despite the Asian Football Federation's (AFC) recommendation to let the Filipinos play.
Borromeo, via his Twitter account, said: "Disheartening news for me that I can't be on the pitch with the boys tomorrow.. But I trust the boys will step up and represent!"
The AFC, through its General Secretary Alex Soosay, sent a letter to FIFA Legal Affairs Director Marco Villiger dated July 18, 2011, recommending that the cautions (yellow cards) dealt to Borromeo and Schrock be cancelled. This was done by the AFC as a response to the Philippine Football Federation's (PFF) appeal based on Article 37 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code:
1. Upon its own initiative or at the request of a confederation, the Disciplinary Committee may cancel cautions that have not resulted in an expulsion so as to restore the balance among several teams that have not played the same number of matches during the first round of a competition, or in other exceptional circumstances.
2. In any case, the committee may do this only once in any competition.
3. The Disciplinary Committee’s decision is final.
The PFF hoped that the football governing bodies would let the two Filipinos play "in the spirit of fair play", given Kuwait is ranked 102nd to the Philippines' 159th.
The decision came Friday, in a letter sent by AFC General Secretary Alex Soosay to Ramon Manuel, General Secretary of the PFF. The letter states:
"Kindly be informed that we were adviced by FIFA to which we agree that Article 37 of the FDC applied only to cautions that have not resulted in an expulsion. Your request however is in regards to the following players; Alexander Borromeo and Stephan Schrock who had received two cautions in two different matches in the first round of the said Qualifiers (against Sri Lanka on 29 June 2011 and 03 July 2011 respectively). This warrants an automatic suspension for the match against Kuwait on 23 July 2011. FIFA had sent out the confirmation letter to your good Federation informing the suspension of the two above-mentioned players.
Therefore Article 37 of the FDC is not applicable in the instant case. As such the two cautions received by each of the above-mentioned players cannot be cancelled and they are suspended for the match against Kuwait on 23 July 2011."
"Unfortunately, we did not get the result we desired. Nevertheless, our team will continue to fight to win and represent the country in a way that will make us all proud to be Filipinos," said Philippine Football Federation Treasurer Bonnie Ladrido.
Borromeo's absence means Chieffy Caligdong will act as captain. Possible replacements are Ray Jonsson, Manuel Ott and Jason de Jong, according to Borromeo. --
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