Korean-reinforced team to tackle Azkals squad

While the four-goal draw against the Negros Selection `Asukal’ team Monday afternoon may not be indicative of the real strength of the national men’s football team, the Azkals, the friendly game against the Korean-reinforced team from the Central Philippine University (Iloilo) tomorrow is another battle to watch out for.

The team from Iloilo saw action recently in Dumaguete City during the National University Games, and although it failed to capture the championship, the team showed its potential.

“It will be a good match,” former Bacolod City congressman and Philippine Olympic Committee chairman Monico Puentevella said.

He stressed that the national team is not yet complete with the rest of the members of the Azkals, such as goal keeper Neil Etheridge, and Jason de Jong arriving on February 6.

We will see how strong the team is when they are complete. The Team B that failed to contain the Negros Selection in the second half of Monday’s friendly game was mostly composed of players scouted for the Southeast Asian Games in Indonesia later this year, Puentevella said.

Meanwhile, congressman Albee Benitez of the third district will treat football spectators on February 9 with a spectacular display of fireworks during the Philippine vs. Mongolia game.

Everytime the Azkals score, the skies in Panaad will be illuminated with red, white, yellow and blue fireworks.

Benitez believes in the potential of Negrenses in football and he is giving his full support to the sports, the press release said.*NAB

Visayan Daily Star