Azkals, Ceres-Negros U23 match for free

THE much waited September 13 match between the Philippine Men’s Football Team-Azkals and the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) – Suzuki Cup U23 National Cup champion Ceres-Negros Team will be free of charge.


Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. announced it Monday and was confirmed by Executive Assistant IV and Provincial Sports coordinator Angel ‘Nonong’ Verdeflor during the meeting last night with Negros Football League's Rafael 'Junie' Lizares at the Luxur Place.


The event will take place 6 p.m. after the Bacolod United FC-Real Negrense FC tussle at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City.

The match will highlight the opening ceremony of the 1st Negros First Men’s Open Football Tournament, which will official kick off Saturday, September 17.

It was earlier reported that tickets amounting to P200, 100 and P50 would be sold, proceeds of which will be used to help the PFF in strengthening the national football program.

But Verdeflor said the governor's decision to have the event viewed for free is to provide the Negrenses the opportunity to watch a highly competitive game as well as to further help the football program of the province.


The 16 teams in the 1st Negros First Men’s Open include Group A led by San Carlos FC, Bacolod United, Pontevedra FC, Sagay City FC, Las Buenas FC, Magallon FC, Kabankalan City FC and Bago City FC while Group B has Real Negrense FC, Ceres Liner Football Team, Himamaylan City FC, La Carlota FC, Talisay City FC, Don Bosco Alumni FC and Cadiz City FC.


The seeding of San Carlos FC, Bacolod United, Real Negrense FC and Ceres Liner Football Team was based on the history of the teams in terms of their active participation in various local and national tournaments for the past several years. (JSG)

Sun Star Bacolod