Mayweather vs. Pacquiao: The Fight of the Century

The Fight of the Century! Mayweather vs. Pacquiao!
Photo credit to the owner.

After almost six years of waiting, the fight any boxing fan has been longing to see will finally happen. Manny Pacquiao vs. Floyd Mayweather, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 2nd (May 3rd in the Philippines).

I wanted this fight to happen so badly ever since the buzz on the airwaves in early 2010 where Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao were at the top of the boxing echelon at that time. Coming off huge statement wins over Juan Manuel Marquez, Pacquiao's biggest rival and Puerto Rican superstar Miguel Cotto respectively.

Tale of the Tape c/o Bleacher Report

If I remember correctly, in late 2008, they had some talks of a possible match between each other but Mayweather had other plans and announced his retirement to the sport. They had fought the same opponents during that span of time. Facing boxing great Oscar de la Hoya, England's Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, Juan Manuel Marquez and Shane Mosley. Comparing the fights of Mayweather and Pacquiao to them, Pacquiao had the more impressive results against them against to Mayweather's but Money claims that they were never the same after they had been defeated by the undefeated American.

Pacquiao (R) landing a left straight on Bradley on their first fight on June 2012.
Photo credit to the owner.

The year 2012 where I thought to be the end of a possible showdown with Mayweather that Manny Pacquiao lost both of his 2012 matches in controversial at shocking fashion. In June 2012, Manny Pacquiao fought the then-undefeated welterweight champion Timothy Bradley. Manny lost the fight in a split decision favoring the American Bradley. Six months after, Manny fought his Mexican archrival Juan Manuel Marquez for the fourth time. Manny was winning the fight until that powerful right hand of Marquez hit Pacquiao's chin and Manny became unconscious for several seconds.

In 2013, after almost a year of not hitting the ring, Manny Pacquiao returned to face young gun Brandon "Bam-Bam" Rios. The Pac-Man won in a convincing fashion, beating Rios in 12-round unanimous decision.

Mayweather vs. Maidana. Photo credit to the owner.

2014 is the year that the radar of the superfight might be get inked. It was a spectacular performance for both Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather last year. Mayweather fought tough Argentinian Marcos Rene Maidana. It was then the toughest fight Mayweather had been after a while according to some boxing analysts, so tough that it Maidana deserved another match with him. After months of waiting, the rematch happened and like that first fight, it was a tough fight to call. With Maidana's great pressure and aggressiveness and Floyd's ring generalship and quick defense, it was indeed true that "styles make fights". Mayweather won the rematch via unanimous decision.

Meanwhile, Manny Pacquiao had his own quest for redemption when he took on Timothy Bradley in the rematch of their controversial first fight last June 2012. Manny said that he clearly won the first fight but Bradley claims that he deserved the victory. In the rematch, Manny dominated the fight in the late rounds and Bradley was never the same in the first fight where he was the aggressor of throughout the fight but Manny had the more accurate and had the more powerful punches. Manny won the rematch via unanimous decision.

Pacquiao scored one of the six knockdowns of his match against Chris Algieri.
Photo credit to the owner.

Last November 2014, when everyone expects that Manny will fight Juan Manuel Marquez again but it turned out to be the once in a lifetime chance of young Chris Algeri, a multiple kickboxing champion before became a boxing champion last June when he fought Aleksandar Provodnikov, one of Timothy Bradley's tough opponents. It was a golden chance for Algieri to make a statement in the boxing world to try and defeat one of boxing's all-time great but Pacquiao, really, too fast, too smart, too agile, too powerful for the young Algieri. Although it ended as a unanimous decision win for Manny, the outcome didn't reflect how the fight went. Pacquiao had a record of six knockdowns to Algieri and Chris was really fighting for survival and it was more like a "run and take the money" thing in boxing for him.

After their fights, Manny and Floyd had their fair share of calling each other out to finally make this superfight happen for the fans to see. Manny posted on Twitter last December and claims that he can beat Floyd Mayweather and as of now, that tweet generated 100k+ retweets.

Pacquiao and Mayweather met each other for the first time in an NBA regular season game.
Photo credit to the owner.

Last January 27, 2015, in a regular NBA game between the Miami Heat and the Milwaukee Bucks, the two boxing greats unlikely met at half-time of the game and exchanged phone numbers and had a private meeting at Pacquiao's hotel in Miami after the game. I felt that the odds of making the fight happen became stronger.

Until yesterday, February 21, 2015, early morning here in the Philippines, Floyd confirmed that the mega fight will be on May 2nd! Manny followed the confirmation on his Twitter account, "I am very happy that Floyd Mayweather and I can give the fans the fight that they have wanted for so many years." "I dedicate this fight to all the fans who willed this fight to happen and, as always, to bring glory to the Philippines", the Pac-Man added.

On that day, I was so elated and euphoria was all-over me. I've waited so many years for this fight to happen and it was a historic day really when they announced it. It will be even more historic when the two best fighters of their generation will be in one ring together. Oh boy, I really can't wait to see that and it will be one of the fights that will be relive for future generation. I cannot miss this fight in my lifetime. With such jubilation and excitement building up to the fight, everyone is now so pumped and cannot wait for May 2nd.

Photo credit to the owner.

For the fight itself, I expect a very close match between the two. Mayweather has not fought a southpaw in a long while and based on those results against southpaws, he was not comfortable against them but with his ring IQ and defensive prowess, he can somehow make a move on Manny, who is an aggressive boxer-puncher with punches in different awkward angles that can pressure Mayweather. Floyd hasn't faced a fighter that is powerful, speedy and aggressive as Manny Pacquiao so this should be an exciting fight even for the neutrals of the sweet science. As what the old boxing saying goes that "Styles make fights" and indeed it is one. Defense-oriented vs. Offense-oriented.

In terms of the outcome of the fight, it would be tough to predict yet but as a Filipino, of course am devotedly rooting for Manny on this one but I am wary of Floyd's capability in the ring but Manny has a very huge chance of making that 47-1 record to Floyd.

Come on Manny! I cannot wait for the Fight of the Century!

#worldcup fever!

As I write this blog, it's just 7 hours away 'till the start of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. I just simply can't wait for the #worldcup to start. Last World Cup in South Africa in 2010, few Filipinos are anticipating the most watched and the biggest sporting event in the world but this time, with football part of the sporting disciplines Filipinos are into today because of the Azkals putting football back in the Philippines in their historic semifinals finish in the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup, I expect more football fans to watch this momentous event. Plus, more people will be aware of the World Cup, with an estimated viewers of 2 billion all over the world, 10 times bigger than the SuperBowl and beating the Olympics. Football is really the sport of the world. A sport that is more than a sport, a religion. That's why I love football so much. The passion, the intensity, the atmosphere of the stadium, the drama, and the euphoria for goals, goals and more GOALS!

The only one trophy the world going nuts for, the FIFA World Cup trophy.

Before the tournament kicks off 9 hours from time (around 4:00 am, Manila time), I have predicted every bracket in the FIFA World Cup in the EA Sports Interactive Bracket and here's my prediction. I am torn between four teams, Brazil, Argentina, Germany and Spain but I made my decision that Germany might win their 4th World Cup title.

I predicted Germany to win their 4th World Cup title.

But I decided that because of their capability, line-up and experience but actually, I am rooting for both England and Japan. A little bit of Brazil because I root for them last World Cup so my heart still have Brazil in it plus the fact that they are the host this year and count those stars in their crest, five of them. They won five FIFA World Cups and they can possibly add a sixth star. I root for Japan because I love their style of play, short passing, tiki-taka. Under Zaccheroni-kantokun, they are one of the dark horses in the World Cup plus the fact that I know the players and how they play, I actually follow this national team like England and the fact that my Japanese influence is still there like watching anime and reading manga and listening to Japanese music. I support England because I am a huge fan of English football, following the Barclays Premier League for years and although that England's national team, The Three Lions, is a huge disappointment for years in every World Cup and EUROs, because of the pressure and expectations from their compatriots back home in England because of their star-studded line-up, I believe that they can still prove that they can be one of the best!

Well, I am just stoked and excited to watch the 2014 FIFA World Cup now and may the best team win! Enjoy life! Enjoy football! Enjoy 31 days of the FIFA World Cup! Ciao!

Here's some music from the Official World Cup album by Shakira. She's back with a new sports anthem!

#ThankYouSirAlex

Time: 9:52 p.m.
Where: In my bedroom.
Now Playing: "Glory, glory, Man United"

---



26 years, 1497 games, 893 wins, 38 trophies, 13 league titles, 5 FA Cups, 4 League Cups, 2 Champions Leagues, 1 chewing gum.

I am still stunned and gutted about this development. I don't know why the reason of his sudden retirement which is unexpected, it just suddenly came out without any rumors about it. He said that he has done so much for the club which he did and it's about time. I respect Fergie's decision but Manchester United is not the same without Fergie in there so for the next manager, has the big shoes to fill in and for sure will never emulate Fergie's achievements.



For almost 27 years of managing the club, he made drastic changes to the club and the sport of football in general as the club attracts more supporters because of the tradition of winning of the club. That's why I am a fan of this great club because of its glorious history and the culture mentality of being "more than a club".With Fergie, investors have also interest in the club and it is part of the New York Stock Exchange in August of last year but with Sir Alex sudden retirement, I wonder how will it impact the clubs' shares. I admire his professionalism and encouragement on young footballers to be part of the history. I mean, he produced the best players United can have from Eric Cantona, Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Edwin van der Sar, David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo up to Wayne Rooney along with his unprecedented achievements. I really admire this guy and when I heard the news about it, I feel like losing a grand dad because he is affectionate to his fans dearly and I am one of it that is greatly affected by this. As of now, it is still trending as #1 on Twitter (#ThankYouSirAlex). This is a proof of how much the world love Sir Alex and we will never forget his accolades.

Glory, glory, MAN UNITED! Glory, glory, Sir Alex! Thank You Sir Alex for all you've done!

---

Time: 11:36 p.m.
Where: Still here.
Now Playing: "Fergie, Sign Him Up"

Football Month.

Time: 2:32 a.m.
Where: In my bedroom.
Now Playing: "Hear Me" by Imagine Dragons.

---

Long time no blogging. It's been awhile but I am so excited this month of May, probably, one of my favorite months in the calendar year. So excited to see the UEFA Champions League Final between Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. An all-German finale in the famous Wembley Stadium in London. I wanted to see Manchester United in there but I gotta admit that this year is for 'ze Germans'. LOL. They've proven so much and didn't show any sign of weakness in all competitions especially Bayern who are trying to go on a treble this footballing season. After their disappointing penalty shoot-out loss against Chelsea in their home turf in Munich for the Champions League Final, they were eager to bounce back and yeah, bounced back, BIG TIME indeed. As for Dortmund, they had a great season but with strings of injuries depleting their line-up, they still managed to rise up but with Bayern dominating the Bundesliga this season and recorded the fastest championship clinching in history, they know how to slow these guys down from Bavaria. Dortmund who were the underdogs in their semifinals against Real Madrid just overpowered them in the first leg via Robert Lewandowski's four-some (4-1) and hanging on in the second leg (0-2) while Bayern just clobbered Barcelona in both legs (7-0 in aggregate). Can't wait to see these two German giants going at it.



Another thing that I've been waiting is the UEFA Europa League Final in Amsterdam where Chelsea and Benfica will go out for the title. I've been always supportive of English clubs in European competitions like the Champions League and the Europa League but not the domestic level like the Premier League. I've seen Benfica play last year and they were a great side even beating my fave club last year in the group stages of the Champions League so it will be a good end-to-end match for sure.



Lastly is the latest development on Filipino club football where Global FC will be participating in the AFC President's Cup which would be the first intercontinental club competition that the club will join in and the first Pinoy club to do so. It is a big deal to somehow expose our Pinoy clubs to Asia and improve the status of club football here. They will also join the Singapore Cup for the first time together with the Loyola Meralco Sparks who joined the knockout tourney last year finishing as semifinalists. I maybe a Kaya FC fan but for Pinoy football, I will support them.

Exciting month for me and for the Filipino football dieheards. I guess this will be a great month. :)

---

Time: 3:36 a.m.
Where: In my bed.
Now Playing: "Closer" by Travis.

My first footsteps in the historic Araneta Coliseum.

Time: 1:41 p.m.
Where: In the living room.
Now Playing: "Bring It On" by Hard-Fi.

---

I've been a passionate fan of basketball for a long time, whether college hoops (NCAA or UAAP) or professional ball like the PBA or NBA, because if you're here in the Philippines, it is natural to be a basketball lover even though I am busy following football in general. After all, it is the most beloved sport here, but with all of those times, I've never watch a game live, EVER. I was dreaming of going to Araneta Coliseum one day when I was little as if I wanna experience the passion inside with all of the fans around. On August 19, 2012, it is a Sunday, finally, I've got a chance to be in THE BIG DOME to watch my school (Adamson University) go against my mother's Alma Mater (University of Santo Tomas) in their first round encounter in the UAAP.

I was uncertain of going to the venue because it was understandable that it was my first time of going in there but still, I managed to get in because I won't waste this opportunity.

1:24 p.m., I finally made it and got on my seat. Realistically, I never thought that the Araneta Coliseum was small unlike what was shown when they host a game of PBA or even the UAAP but what the heck, I would be watching a great game.

Start of the game, Adamson got a slow start. Of course, we miss some key players from last year like Alvarez and the others, and Alex Nuyles got his injury that would sent him out of the season but the loss of key players is the not reason to give up on the game, it's all about stepping up the level of play. We finish the first quarter getting closer with Fortuna's company with UST.

Second quarter was a tight affair but Adamson led most of the time in that 'kanto' and even boost the squad's momentum when they bury a buzzer-beating shot to end the first half of the game.

Second half was underway and like they end the first half, Adamson going hard on the interior and Karim Abdul couldn't figure out the same play the Falcons were doing inolving Monteclaro and Brondial. Camson had a great third quarter.

Last quarter of the game, it seemed that the Growling Tigers were on a frenzy when they made a run to somehow match with Adamson's intensity. In the dying seconds of the game, Karim Adbul, the hero of the FEU match, again defying the odds to put the Espana outfit in front. 18 seconds to go and Camson was holding the ball, tries to go underneath and tried to buy a foul but the referee didn't call it. It was a little bit unfortunate and we were all disappointed but nonetheless I had fun cheering most of the time and I was like very loud and that's where the passion comes.

FINAL SCORE: Adamson 60-61 UST

Although it was a painful loss at the end, really, it was a great game, end-to-end action but I must say, it was a valiant effort for our team despite the uncharacteristic record they have right now at 1-6 where most of their losses where held in tight contests like this one. It didn't reflect the last season's record where they finished 3rd because we were having a complete line-up. I'd say that the Adamson team we have right now is a rebuilding squad because of the huge losses in terms of roles of the key players use to do in the previous time but I know how rebuilding goes and I must support in the coming years and go back to the time of 1952 where Adamson have their first and only UAAP Basketball Championship with the leadership of the "Director" himself and one of the 25 Greatest Players to play in the PBA, Hector Calma, one of the most prolific alumni of Adamson University.

Again, I had fun that day and I just wish I can go to another live game and share the passion again with my fellow hoops fans.

---

Time: 2:19 p.m.
Where: Still here.
Now Playing: "Bubblegun" by CatPeople.

The End of an Era... NOT.

Time: 4:34 p.m.
Where: In the living room.
Now Playing: "Belong" by The Pains of Being Pure at Heart.

---

Today, I was so excited to see Manny Pacquiao back in the ring because not only he makes boxing exciting but the whole world as well, including his homeland, the Philippines. I even have my new MP t-shirt from Nike ready to wear prior to the fight with American undefeated boxer, Timothy Bradley. I even have less sleep this day because I was so excited even though this fight, realistically, is not a MEGAFIGHT material. Watched Denmark upset the Dutch and Germans prevailed against Portugal at the EUROs and forgot to rest. I was so stoked because after years of me and my father watching in a free public viewing room inside the city's sports complex where we always suffered too much perspiration to the heat inside the said establishment and with tons of people inside, we always discomfort but this time, nice atmosphere with a nice drink, good food and satisfying entertainment, the undercard that is.

The undercard was really exciting that almost every fight has a knockout result. We saw an old boxer rose to fame with a stunning upset in the name of KO king himself, Randall Bailley beating young prospect Mike Jones, suffered his first loss and another controversial fight with the legendary Jorge Arce and young Jesus Rojas involved with a no contest.




That was when the main event came early because of the last undercard ended in no contest in Round 2. We learned that Pacquiao wasn't ready with his gloves and mitting because he was focused on watching the Game 7 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals between the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics. Yes, he finished the game and he made Bradley and the audience wait for a long time. I just thought that time that it might caused something to the match with Manny, losing his focus and stuff. Also, I thought that how would this fight go because there were rumors that Team Pacquiao having their own ways. Conditioning coach, Alex Ariza, left the Philippine training camp weeks ago and said he would prepare Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr first because the younger Chavez's fight was just a week away that time. Also, there were rumors of miscommunication between the members including Coach Freddie, Ariza, and others but Roach said eventually that everything was going smoothly.

The national anthems were much anticipated as well with AI Season 11 runner-up Jessica Sanchez singing the U.S. anthem. The fight was minutes away, everyone was so pumped in the cinema, including me and joined along with Michael Buffer's famous line, "LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!"

Bradley was great in the first two rounds, beating Paccquiao to the jab and power punches and it seems that Manny can't get into Bradley and Bradley's stalking tactic payed off. Three rounds after, Manny got his groove with barrage of power punches on Bradley. It seemed that Bradley can hadle Manny's punches but he looked hurt with those 4-5 punch combinations by Manny including powerful hooks to the jaw. Manny though, couldn't land a powerful body shot on Bradley with those rounds. Three rounds left and Bradley woke up and again showed what he did in the early rounds. Stalk Manny and land the power punches. I just noticed that Manny landed a few punches and didn't answer back with some of Bradley's combinations that mostly blocked by Manny.

It was decision time. I was so nervous because it was an another close call. Back-to-back close fights for Manny. So, 115-113 for Pacquiao, 115-113 for Bradley, and 115-113 all to the winner by SPLIT DECISION... and there... we're all disappointed because the fight didn't reflect the result. I was shouting, pumping my chest and threw my hat away. Others were saying "NOOOOO" aloud. A woman beside me cried. Well, Manny hurt Bradley but Bradley didn't hurt Manny even though he was aggressive in some rounds. I don't know if the judges were basing the tempo of the fight or the scoring of the punches landed?

I bet that in jail, Mayweather is happy & so are the Mexican fans. Also, gotta love the "Call Me Maybe" jokes about Pacquiao & Bradley. LOL. The most annoying picture of the day: Nanalo tapos sabay 'wheelchair'? Bwiset.



Just so disappointed, up to now but I guess we all have to move on and listen to Bradley on what he said three days ago that the rematch will be on between him and the Pac-Man. So, I guess I will definitely gonna watch that. I guess going back to school tomorrow with a smile on my face... NOT! LOL.

---

Time: 5:12 p.m.
Where: Still here.
Now Playing: "Collide" by Howie Day.

---

The Year in Review

Time: 4:12 p.m.
Where: In the study table.
Now Playing: "Perth" by Bon Iver.

---

2011 has been a great year for me but the year had some highs and lows, pros and cons, and other than that, there were events featured this year that made all of us remember what happened during the year of the Metal Rabbit both locally and internationally as far as I can remember.

---

January 2011:

When the Egyptians starting to make a rally for liberation, for change against then-Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak after 30 years in position. The rebels protested for the whole month. The AFP corruption was talked about in the Senate and all month long, it was on national television. Former AFP Chief Angelo Reyes, Garcia and more were involved in the said anomaly. Col. Rabusa and Heidi Mendoza were the state witnesses. Japan won the AFC Asian Cup in Qatar after beating Australia, 1-0 with Tanadari Lee's goal at extra time proving to be the match winner for the Blue Samurai.

---

February 2011:

When Egypt moved forward and forced Mubarak to step down. the Tahrir Square in pure jubilation that month. Angelo Reyes committed suicide because of the problems involving the AFP corruption. The Azkals made an impression to the Filipino football fans when they first played in front of home crowd in more than 15 years in the Panaad Stadium in Bacolod for the AFC Challenge Cup qualifiers against Mongolia. Philippines won 2-0. Talk N' Text won the 2010-11 Philippine Cup when they defeated the Brgy. Ginebra Kings in a best-of-7 Final series, 4-2. Jason Castro and Jimmy Alapag were named co-MVPs. Nonito Donaire won the WBC/WBO Bantamweight belts after knocking out Fernando Montiel in the 2nd Round. Indie rock band Arcade Fire won the Album of the Year, and Lady Antebellum won 5 Grammys. After Egypt, the nations of Bahrain, Yemen and Libya also protested to step down their respective leaders.

---

March 2011:

When Japan faced their worst disaster in centuries. The Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures were gushed by the tsunami with a powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake. More than 20,000 victims counted and radiation levels were high as the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power plants collapsed. The Azkals made it into the Group Stages of the AFC Challenge Cup by beating Mongolia in the aggregate score of 3-2. The Azkals lost to Mongolia in the second leg but made it enough for them to go to Myanmar for the Group Stages. They eventually made it to the Elite 8 of the AFC Challenge Cup 2012 after being Runner-Up to their group with a win and two draws. The Middle East uprising continued.

---

April 2011:

Young teen actor AJ Perez was found dead after the car he and his dad were in was crashed into a bus in Tarlac. India won the ICC Cricket World Cup after beating their rivals Sri Lanka. Libya on a hostile regime with cities divided with the rebels and Moammar Gaddafi's forces and supporters. The Army was also involved in the shake-up.

---

May 2011:

Manny Pacquiao won convincingly against Shane Mosley via unanimous decision at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV. Justin Bieber went here to the Philippines for a one-night concert. After ten years of finding, Osama Bin Laden was killed in Pakistan and Americans on a long term euphoria. When Manchester United was on top of the perch with 19 Premierships, beating Liverpool's 18th but suffered a loss in the UEFA Champions League Final against Barcelona, 3-1.

---

June 2011:

The Azkals started their 2014 World Cup against Sri Lanka. They drew 1-1 with Nate Burkey cancels the first Sri Lankan goal for the Philippines.

---

July 2011:

The Azkals made it to the second round of the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers by beating Sri Lanka in 5- aggregate as the Philippines beat Sri Lanka, 4-0 in the second leg. They would eventually face the mighty Kuwait in the second round of the qualifiers and the Azkals lost on the aggregate score of 1-5 in the hands of the Al-Azraq at the last week of the month. when Kobe, D-Rose, CP3 and the rest of NBA Smart All-Stars visit Manila for two exhibition matches between the PBA All-Stars and the Smart Gilas. When Amy Winehouse was found dead in her home in London.

---

August 2011:

When Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber won VMAs in the MTV Video Music Awards. Gaga first introduced her alter ego, Jo Calderone who was featured in her music video, "Yoü and I". Smart Gilas made a strong finish in the Jones Cup.

---

September 2011:

When the Smart Gilas boys made their best FIBA Asia Championship finish after 24 years, back in the final four. They beat Chinese Taipei in the last 8 before bowing down to Jordan and Korea Republic for the Final 4 and battle for third respectively. Marcus Douthit proving to be the best player for the Philippines.

---

October 2011:

When the Azkals had two FIFA international friendlies. First against the Lions of Singapore. The match was at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore and the Philippines lost 2-0 against the Singaporeans. The other friendly was held here in the Rizal Memorial Stadium against Nepal, that is also part of the Elite 8 in the AFC Challenge Cup in March 2012 and have a higher rank than Singapore at that time. Philippines beat Nepal 4-0. After months of riot and hostile, the rebels found Mommar Gaddafi and killed him due to wounds and so as his sons. That ended the 30-year regime of Gaddafi and Libya started anew. Former Apple CEO Steve Jobs lost to battle pancreatic cancer, aged 56. iPhone 4S was released to the market. When Ramgen Revilla was killed inside his home. His siblings were pointed to be the masterminds of the crime. When Charice's father was stabbed at his home in Laguna.

---

November 2011:

When Manny Pacquiao faced Juan Manuel Marquez for the third time. It ended with another controversial victory for Manny in a majority decision. Marquez proclaimed he really won the fight but after the fight, there was a viral video released on YouTube on Marquez stomping Manny's lead foot for several times and the reason Manny can't do power punches without any leverages. Syrians protesting all-month long and violence occurred in every riot. The Ramgen Revilla case was the talk of the month.

---

December 2011:

When Sendong/Washi hit Northern Mindanao and Western Visayas, killing thousands and destroyed homes and livelihood. As of now, donations and pledges still on the way. The Azkals faced the MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy along with David Beckham, Landon Donovan and Robbie Keane. Philippines lost 1-6 versus the MLS Cup champions but that doesn't matter because this event is for the boost of Philippine football. Starstruck alumni and Star Magic talent Tyron Perez was found dead inside his car in Valenzuela City. Egypt and Syria again on the uprise.

---

That's all I can remember what happened in 2011. May I wish you all a Happy, Happy New Year! Goodbye 2011, Hello 2012! Here we go, another year to experience and add to our history. Just seven hours away as I make this blog.

---

Time: 5:58 p.m.
Where: Still here.
Now Playing: "Madder Red" by Yeasayer.

Dream Cup!

Time: 12:46 a.m.
Where: Living room.
Watching: Wigan v Arsenal match.

---

It's really awkward that in the world of football or even in any other team sport that a club team and a national team go head-to-head but wow, it was really a great night I had and Filipino die hard football/soccer fans had. Yeah, LA Galaxy came here and beat us, 6-1 but the real winner is the fans and Philippine football. It was really an intimidating atmosphere in the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila. I saw the match on TV because of the obvious reason. The ticket prices were really high. High or low, I admit, I wouldn't come because I can't commit myself but I would love to come really. I was really stoked and waited for this exhibition match for a long time since it was announced around the last week of October. I was really imagining Emelio 'Chieffy' Caligdong and David Beckham facing each other on the wing position or Phil Younghusband running towards Landon Donovan that can play defensive midfield but more of an attacking midfielder. With those high pitched 'vuvuzela-like' trumpets or whatever it is, I can feel the atmosphere even though I was watching on TV. Wore my Philippines away kit I bought during the World Cup qualifier first round match against Sri Lanka and really ecstatic about this showdown. Anyway, the recap of the epic match.

Phil Younghusband (L) and his childhood hero, David Beckham (R), on the same pitch together that night. Amazing. Just a dream come true for the younger Younghusband.


Beckham was just having a great show for us. With his signature trade mark (not really but it's his forte), the bending free kick, was seen in the Rizal Memorial Stadium as Beckham scored for the LA Galaxy in the 20th minute. After 18 minutes, Magee scored for the visitors, the goal was like the same Beckham did but on the bottom left corner. Phil Younghusband continued to counter after that second Galaxy goal and he did it for 3 minutes and he got rewarded with a goal of his own for the Azkals, beating A.J. DeLaGarza! I was really screaming at that one! That was the halftime score, 2-1 in favor of Galaxy.

                                         Courtesy of ABS-CBN

Second half, it was really a great start for the Galaxy and a bad spell for the Azkals as Robbie Keane scored that smart goal of a set piece with Beckham leading it with a corner. Cristman scored an excellent goal from a counter but his second, I wasn't really impressed with the referees, it was just OFFSIDE! The future assistant manager/coach of the LA Galaxy, playing his last games with the team, Gregg Berhalter, scored a penalty. That wrapped the epic match up. It was a really disappointed second half but yeah, I really enjoyed the match. Beckham, Keane and Donovan had a great game. Beckham and Keane on the score sheet but Donovan contributed two assists. Bruce Arena's men prevailed against Michael Weiss' squad. They were really the better team.

Beckham (R) do the bendin' in the Rizal Memorial Stadium with Guirado (L) and Porteria (C) watching the famous bend shot.


This match is by the way shown around the United States on FOX Sports and FOX Soccer and some other parts of the world on The Filipino Channel so it is a great exposure for Philippine football.

There were some epic moments during the match. When David Beckham was substituted in the 75th minute, Becks immediately removed his kit/jersey and gave it to one of the VIPs that night, Manny Pacquiao. David was happy to see Manny in there and he was excited to get off the pitch to see Manny. There were many celebrities in there and fans was just crazy about the match. One hour after the match, fans still flocking in the stadium, waited for something epic.

Manny and Jinkee Pacquiao with their little souvenir from David Beckham

After the match and logged in into the Internet, the match was trending on Twitter worldwide using the hashtag #AzkalsVsLAGalaxy and that's how Filipinos are, up-to-date and really many netizens here. Fans online enjoyed the match but some aren't. Not because of the result but the hate of the Azkals and football in general.

                                     Courtesy of trendsmap.com

It's so sad to see this. I know, this country's main sport is basketball and I am also an avid basketball fan as well but with these basketball fans bashing and trolling and saying nonsense against the Azkals. They always blabbering about Azkals being arrogant, Azkals being handsome, Azkals being popular, Azkals having half-Filipino players and promoting football here. They always compare what the Azkals can do and what the Gilas/basketball can do. I wonder when will this be stopped. I mean it's really unnecessary for things like this. I think this is a country where "crab mentality" + "racism" occurs 24/7. I believe if "crab mentality is an Olympic sport, we will win Gold easily. They kill the joy of avid football fans here where all we want is for football to become popular here like basketball but they want basketball to be really our sport and they don't want football in their sight and I don't want that. I believe this sport can really unite us especially when we further excel. With these basketball fans saying this things, if we get into the World Cup one day, they will be football fans as well.

But still, it was great day for Philippine football, a great day for the sport and hopefully with this, we can invite more clubs here, especially European clubs, I mean big time clubs like my favorite club, Manchester United with Wayne Rooney, or Real Madrid with Cristiano Ronaldo or Barcelona with Lionel Messi. It was a dream after tonight, it turned to reality. I won't forget this day, December 3, 2011! It is really a 'Dream Cup'!

---

Time: 3:55 a.m.
Where: Still here.
Now Watching: Aston Villa vs. Manchester United

Trilogy.

Time: 8:45 p.m.
Where: In my study table.
Now Playing: "Midnight City" by M83.

---

One of the best rivalries in the history of boxing. From Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, to Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales. Now, it's Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez. Well, Sunday morning, November 13th, I watched the fight on PPV for their must anticipated third fight but first, I got to see the undercards before the main event. Well, I was impressed with the upsets and some dominating wins. In the first undercard, young prospect Luis Cruz who was undefeated before the fight got beaten by his much experienced opponent, Mexican challenger Juan Carlos Burgos and suffered his first loss for the young Puerto Rican. Next, the Mike Alvarado vs. Breidis Prescott fight was amazing. Prescott, who made a name for himself with his famous win against the mighty Amir Khan around 2009, was dominating the whole fight when suddenly, a re-surging Alvarado hit the Colombian with stunning upper cuts in the late rounds that the referee had to stand in between and stopped the fight. Alvarado with a come from behind victory against Prescott. Now, the last undercard was also exciting. The first fight of Timothy Bradley against one of the veterans of the sport, in the name of 40-year old Cuban Joel Casamayor, who also fought Juan Manuel Marquez for whole 12 rounds. Bradley was dominating the rounds until he knockdown the older Casamayor in Round 6 and later in Round 8, the referee seen enough the fight and gave the win for Bradley with some stunning hits to the body of aging Casamayor. He may probably retire now.

Now, the main event, Manny Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez. Part three! Pac-Man vs. Dinamita, Boxer-puncher vs. Counter-puncher. Speed vs. Technicality. This is what this fight is about for the last seven years spanning. Before the third, I will recap what happened in the previous two fights. They first met in 2004 for Marquez WBA and WBO featherweight titles where Manny dropped Marquez three times but Marquez was resilient and won almost the rest of the rounds. "Fire against fire, down the stretch!" called by HBO commentator Jim Lampley. The decision, "DRAW." I remember, one judge admitted that he should've scored the first round 10-6 in favor of Pacquiao because three knockdowns was scored by the other two judges. The said judge was the one who scored the fight even, 113-113. That way, it could be a win for Pacquiao. In my opinion, Marquez won that fight by a single point.

The second fight happened in 2008, again, for Marquez's world title, this time, in the super featherweight division, the WBC 130 lb. belt! Marquez was aggresive and read some of Pacquiao's moves yet in round three, Manny dropped Marquez again to the canvas. Some analysts say Marquez was getting knockdown by some of his opponents it's because of the imbalance progress of his body where he can enhance his body to being freakish yet his legs are still that small, including his thighs and it can't support the huge body. He did recovered to those knockdowns easily it's because he was off balanced and not suffered some serious blow. Continuing to the recap. After the knockdown, Marquez showing the same resilient attitude like the first fight, fought like there's no tomorrow. At Round ten where Manny hit Marquez with an awkward left that almost dropped Marquez to the canvas and on the final round, the fighters continued to exchange blows. The decision, "SPLIT DECISION to Manny Pacquiao." Probably that third round knockdown proving to be the difference to the said fight.

Now, this brings me to the third fight, the trilogy. When I watched the whole fight. I felt nervous because honestly, I had huge expectations for the Pac-Man because with his weight now, he still carries his speed with him and with his speed, he builds power, that's why he was able to beat opponents larger than him but this time, I don't know what happened. I commend Marquez though and he is still the same fighter, the same Kryptonite for Manny. He easily read Manny's next moves, as they exchange throughout the fight, Marquez had more serious blows yet Manny had some too. For the first time, I saw a slow start for Manny. In the early rounds, he was measuring Marquez's capability yet Marquez, at the other hand, already knew what to do early, as Marquez connected with some wild rights to the Pac-Man's head.

In Round seven or eight, I think there's Manny had his blood underneath inside his mouth while Marquez had his head getting red due to the power punches Manny landed with the previous exchanges. In the final round, Manny again slowing down and Marquez grabbed the opportunity to somehow win the round. In my scorecards, I had Marquez winning 115-113 or seven rounds to five but when I heard Michael Buffer's voice, I felt nervous and did the "Sign of the Cross" that I wish Manny will win this and he did win via MAJORITY DECISION, 114-114, 115-113, and 116-112.

I was screaming and pumped my chest and kept saying yeah, along with 3,000 people in the Muntinlupa Sports Complex. Yes, I was happy, but not as happy with the previous results. I was not convinced yet we can't blame Marquez for being good and still the Joe Frazier of Manny. RIP to "Smokin" Joe Frazier though (1944-2011). Before the fight they offered a ten-bell count for Mr. Frazier, a sign of respect for one of the best heavyweights in the world. Now, after the fight, I felt joy but some sympathy to the die hard Mexican boxing fans but yesterday, I have a change of heart slightly when I saw the video Marquez stomped Manny's foot to the key rounds Marquez won.

I know it's natural when the fight is between the southpaw and orthodox but doing it repeatedly for six times is inexcusable. I know Tony Weeks, the referee of the trilogy, was focused from below the belt line above but I don't understand how come Freddie Roach, Manny and the rest didn't call that. I know Manny's nature was not to whine during the fight because he is a warrior and warriors don't do bitchin' but we have to call it to make sure the fight is clean. Now, I believe Manny win this convincingly now it's a Majority Decision or draw and two decisions in favor of Manny. Yes, the split decision in the second fight really described the fight itself but not this one where Marquez the more dominant one by stepping on Pacquiao's strength, by tweaking his foot a bit and stomping it so Manny can't go directly at Marquez and the dynamite can explode with power punches with those counters.

My message to Manny, you claimed this win for us but this time, let this be a wake-up call to you when you fight Marquez again for the fourth time. This is not the first time that two boxers had a fourth installment. Marquez's younger brother, Rafael Marquez fought Freddie Roach's fighter Israel Vazquez and first fight to Marquez, second and third to Vazquez and last year, they fought again for the fourth time and Marquez won. So far, Vazquez had some eye problems while Marquez suffered a loss to Japan's Toshiaki Nishioka last month and probably it may be the last fight of his career but I wanted a fifth fight that will setttle it all! For the last hurrah!

But yeah, back to Manny and Juan Manuel again. When the third fight ended, and Manny announced as winner, I was not thinking of Mayweather next, it should be Marquez again for the fourth time. Mayweather knew that Manny has a huge weakness and thanks to Marquez who is a great technical boxer and a counter-puncher like Floyd. The difference between Floyd and Juan Manuel is, Money has defense while Marquez just keep going forawrd which he slightly capitalized against him last September of 2009. I will look forward to the fourth installment and hopefully, Freddie won't overtrain Pacquiao again and Marquez will not stomp Manny's foot. Let the QUADROPOLOGY happen. Because it's so EPIC, I have to make a new word for the fourth fight.

---

Time: 12:03 a.m.
Where: Still here.
Now Playing: "High and Dry" by Radiohead.

Cheap Shot!

Time: 8:11 p.m.

Where: In the study table.

Now Playing: "Good Life" by OneRepublic.



---



What just happened this day? Well, I'll let myself to rewind my day first. We had our family bonding together by doing what we did years ago, jogging, and playing badminton. Makes a lot of work out, fitness and health awareness plus, the bonding time we had. After that, we had a sort of extraordinary breakfast then went to the Church. Then, we went home and my father and I kept talking about the much anticipated bout between Floyd Mayweather and Victor Ortiz. Too much hype here though because we Filipinos wanna make sure that Mayweather would win to somehow inch closer to the megafight we wanna see and waited years to somehow manage this bout. Manny Pacquiao vs. Floyd Mayweather. I said I wanted Mayweather to win for that megafight to be negotiated but I root for Ortiz to have a knockdown only so that it may have some preview on what will happen to Pacquiao vs. Mayweather but it never happened. It's such that Mayweather was too defensive and picking his shots.

Here we go and tuned in onto the fight. Rounds 1, 2, and 3 were dominated by Mayweather pretty clearly until the whole world witnessed what Round 4 had. Mayweather was very aggressive from the start of the round and kept his defensive style with the specialty of being an evasive fighter until suddenly, Victor Ortiz woke up and attacked Mayweather, cornered him and onto the ropes on the right side until he jumped shortly and his head collided with Floyd's chin. A clear headbutt. Joe Cortez, the referee of the match, gave a one point deduction to Ortiz for the said headbutt. He went to Floyd and said sorry to him with an expression of kissing his cheek as a sign of sportsmanship that he was sorry for what he did. After that, here's what happened.

Joe Cortez was just staring a the ringside where the judges' table and the timekeeper was, I don't know if he was going to say "time-in" or just doing it silently, or probably just stare at them and Victor Ortiz was just looking at the referee if the fight would continue (the wave-off thing in boxing that signals to fight or engage) and Ortiz didn't see any of it or hear the word "fight". So, he thought Cortez was still communicating with the judges at ringside. So while waiting, Ortiz gave Floyd a hug and said sorry. He was too apologetic and shook Floyd's dirty orange gloves until... BOOM! Floyd started to connect with a powerful one-two that knocked-out Ortiz and dropped to the canvas. I was like, oh, that should be a disqualification. One the slow-mo, I noticed that Joe Cortez was not looking when that controversy happened and after the first power punch, Ortiz was not defending himself anymore and BOOM received the second power punch and down he went.



My over-all analysis is this. Blame three of them. I meant of Floyd, Victor and the referee, Joe Cortez. Why blame Ortiz? Because of the very clear headbutt that somehow enraged Floyd and lead to that dirty cheap shot to him. Why blame Joe? Because that signature phrase he got that "I'm fair but firm" was not seen because he was a blind old man and there should be no excuses for that and he should not be a referee anymore. He didn't even waved off his hand to signal for the fighters to continue the match and he was staring too much at ringside. Now, when the knockdown occurred, he immediately counted Ortiz and he was like oh, a knockdown and didn't realized that he didn't signal for them to fight. It's like WWE that the referees not watching the match or getting distracted by one wrestler to punish the other one (untying the ropes, stalling the referee by having your assistant with you, then one will get a steel chair, championship belt, whatsoever to punish), then, the referee would count 1... 2... 3. Sh*t! This is boxing you old goat! Now, why blame Floyd? He kept telling his fans, "I'll give my fans what they wanna see" and he gave the fans some sh*t. About his alter ago being a douche, a coward, an opportunist. He had NO RESPECT to Victor. Ortiz hugged him for a friendly gesture and said "Oh, I am sorry for the headbutt" and Floyd responded with one-two, and Floyd said, "Oh, yeah, apology accepted" and start jumping on the corner and being a self-proclaim champion while other people thought he was a big asshole.

Many of our boxing analysts thought that Mayweather was very unsportsmanlike. Atty. Ed Tolentino said on Facebook, "Floyd Mayweather Jr. did not violate the law of boxing, he violated the spirit of the sport. For all the violence in the sport, a boxer ain't a thug. Joe Cortez should never be allowed to referee again. He claims he is "firm and fair," but he is also blind. Ortiz forgot the No.1 rule in boxing: "protect yourself at all times." Advance notice to Pacquiao: If ever you meet Mayweather, show no mercy. Beat him to a pulp." I concurred him a hundred percent. I was enraged after what saw and thought that Pacquiao should really fight this badass guy and teach him a lesson about respect and not being a sissy. I also thought that this was a fixed match. I mean, from what I saw, It was like they were all doing a show for us but a scripted show. From the commentators, to the entertainers themselves. Ortiz was interviewed and he was like didn't complain at all and he was so very happy on the outcome. It was like a bribe happened so that Mayweather will win this. Guran-DAMN-teed for Floyd. The commentators thought in the first place that it was legit while the audience kept boo-ing Floyd for what they noticed and that Joe Cortez moment where he showed his personality as an old goat and didn't look on what was happening in the ring. If I were Ortiz, I should issue Mayweather a rematch and as a fan, I would sacrifice another wait for the dream bout between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather because I really wanna see a real fight between them, and not a fluke one with WWE-style of boxing with bribing the the referees and they aren't looking at all or an Edge-like Mayweather, the ultimate opportunist and after that rematch, I just hope Pacquiao will have that no mercy attack on him and beat his black ass (no racism though, just pissed)!



Just watch this arrogant, brash narcissist Floyd Mayweather on what he had to say with HBO's Larry Merchant after the fight.

---



Time: 9:29 p.m.

Where: Still here.

Now Playing: "No Surprises" by Radiohead.

Almost but not Kuwait.

Time: 1:24 p.m.
Where: In the study table.
Now Playing: "Amber" by 311.

---

Well, still can't get over on what happened on last week where the Philippines vs. Kuwait match-up began and ended. It's better late than never. It's such that I am satisfied that the Azkals fought hard up to the very end and it was a very proud moment. Did their strategy throughout the two legs it's such that the Al-Azraq was too experienced and too good for us. It's not a shame to lose to an experienced squad like Kuwait who ranked 95th in the FIFA Rankings as of now comapred to the Azkals' 162nd spot.

First Leg Observation: I just noticed that the match opening up a bit between the two sides, especially in our side but the last line of defense were solid until they loosen up the grip and concede a goal in the 16th minute. Miscommunication between Sabio and Gier. Still blaming Sabio for getting out of the box. Another miscommunication happened in the second half, and again, it was in the central defense. Sabio did it again. Hay, scrambling in front of goal, still, the nifty right foot by the Kuwaiti defender, Neda, scored and put up a cushion, it was 2-0. The third goal was just pure skill on the Kuwaitis and showing the inexperienced of the Azkals in the defense. It was just collapsed out after being solid in the last 50 minutes.



Michael Weiss, the coach/manager of the Azkals, didn't trust his other players on the bench in the likes of Roel Gener, and Simon Greatwich, who were later substitutes in the last four minutes of the match. Another thing, we truly missed the presence of the armor of the central defense, Captain Aly Borromeo and the heart of the midfield, Stephan Schrock who mostly dictates the run offensively and a hardworker on taking on those forwards out. It was 3-0, in favor of Kuwait. Experience kills youth.

Second Leg Observation: The Azkals woke up and attacked the on Kuwait's half for all 45 minutes but it was the counter-attacking strategy of Kuwait that made the match competitive in both sides of the pitch. Al-Mutwa, who was silent in the fist leg, just rushed forward in the first half and I think 3 on-target attempts was close, either it hit the post or over the crossbar. Felt the prescence of Aly and Schrock again as they defend and control the pace of the game respectively. Chieffy was persevere to keep the possession throughout the first half and it was worth it. He passed the ball to Phil yet it was broken and the ball was on Schrock and he shocked and electrify the whole Rizal Memorial Stadium with a roar! What a stunning strike was that. Goosebumps every time I watched this video below. What a proud moment. At first, before kick-off, I just wish a goal for the Philippines, win or lose, qualified or not, against the mighty Kuwait and it happened. Thanks to Schrocki.



However, in the second half though, just like Leg 1, the center defense was just our main problem. Yes, more pressure applied in the second leg but it was just not enough to utilize the Kuwaitis from scoring. Etheridge did his best to get those loose balls in front of him but that second goal was just pure miscommunication, and on the opposite side, Kuwait's experience dominated the Azkals' youth. It was a nice game that thrilled the whole nation although it was a disappointing loss. It's understandable that the Azkals are still in the developing mode, getting the chemistry of the players, the system, the rotation, the proper formation in each fixture and hopes for Philippine football to grow.

Future of Philippine football

Now that football is back in the Philippines after being dominant in the sport in Asia half a century ago, I am hoping that the government or probably MVP, to build a huge, state-of-the-art football stadium. Probably, an 80,000+ capacity crowd inside supporting for the Azkals is more fun to watch than the previous matches. Also, the United Football League, our version of the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, etc., to grow and to be televised for the people to be aware about local club football plus, they will able to learn more about the beautiful game. Also, international exposure is the key on a higher FIFA ranking. We need to have international friendlies once in a while. Facing higher ranked teams will be good for us. It may lower our morale but every loss is a win, winning experience, that is. Grassroots development and continuous programs on football should be on the move as well. The Azkals management is also doing the search for fresh talent in Europe, U.S. and hopefully, they'll go to South America. I hope there will be Filipino-Brazilians, Filipino-Argentinians or Filipino-Uruguayans there to showcase their talent and play for our national team, playing with our colors. I wish the best of luck for Philippine football and as an avid football fan, I am happy that the Azkals existed and football was reborn here because of them. That's their main objective as well, to revive football, for football to be part of the list of Juan de la Cruz's favorite sports. Go Azkals Go!

---

Time: 2:59 p.m.
Where: Still here.
Now Playing: "Doubt" by Delphic.

Azkals make Philippine football history.

Time: 6:02 p.m.
Where: In the living room, just finished watching the momentous game.
Now Playing: Nothing this time.

---

Wow! Just wow! I've never been so thrilled like this before. As a long time football fan, I am always thrilled with every Manchester United goal but when your national team playing for pride and for country, you'll be thrilled three times more than your favorite club team. It was a blowout. 4-0. We truly gave it all to Sri Lanka.



What a match. When Emelio "Chieffy" Caligdong scored that important goal. I had "euphoria". Grabe, then Phil Younghusband added that controversial goal which is to me is legal. It's normal in football to jump over a goalkeeper when the ball is loose unless if the timing is bad, it'll be a yellow card to the keeper or the player inside the box. It's wither way. Phil did dodge it and scored. Guirado added more magic when he outsmarts the Sri Lankan keeper Fernando... not once, but twice. One of those elegant moves led to a goal. New Azkal sensation Stephan Schrock was tripped by one of Sri Lankan defender. Caused the game and it was a penalty. Phil Younghusband yet again took the penalty kick and scored. Almost a hat-trick.



That was the round-up of the goals but it was fierce and caused for Schrock and our captain, Borromeo to not play in the important Kuwait match for Round 2. They are vital players in CMF and DMF respectively. Grabe. Kinakabahan na nga ako na Kuwait makakalaban natin, then, these bookings happened.



Well, can't wait 'till July 23 and 28. Although nervous, I am so stoked about this match-up. Heart vs. Talent! Go Azkals! Live the World Cup dream!

---

Time: 6:34 p.m.
Where: Still here, wearing my Azkals away kit.
Now Playing: Nothing.

Azkals' bid the 2014 World Cup starts tomorrow.

Time: 1:18 a.m.
Where: In our bedroom.
Now Playing: "Take Me Over" by Cut Copy.

---



---

Well, I am so stoked about tomorrow's event. I think everyone is, as well. Either you're a basketball fan, or boxing fan, everyone will be focusing into football, to the Azkals. As they conquer Sri Lanka for the Round 1 fixtures of the FIFA World Cup 2014, Asian Zone Qualifiers on June 29 and July 3. If we win these fixtures by aggregate, we will face the mighty Kuwait. I am so nervous if we make it the Round 2 but at least if we win against Sri Lanka, we make history as we pass Round 1 for the first time in our long time campaign in the World Cup qualifiers in Asia, correct me if I'm wrong. Before this World Cup campaign of the national team, we last did it way back 2003, for the qualifiers for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. As usual, we didn't pass Round 1. Four years after, we didn't even try to compete for the qualification for the recent FIFA World Cup 2010 in South Africa.



I guess this year, we can compete again because we have some good chances this time and at the right time that the sponsors and television exposure is great for our national team. I mean, the exposure to the sport, that people are aware that they are here. I hate when people only knew the Azkals because they are good-looking. C'mon, "FOOTBALL". Instead of football chants, I hear screaming girls. Gladly, there's the so-called "Kaholeros". Football chants will be great in a football match. That's why I love football so much because of the passionate game and the fans carry it on with their chants to the opposing team, the tradition, the history, the rivalries. Every goal is special in football, unlike basketball.

Here's my breakdown or my pre-match analysis of what will happen tomorrow afternoon in Colombo, Sri Lanka:

I watched a game of Sri Lanka vs. Maldives on YouTube in the 2008 SAFF Championship, the football competition in South Asia, it's like in South East Asia, the AFF Suzuki Cup, and I see, their strategy is the "Quick Counter". They put their men in defense and when intercepts, the attacking midfield surges and run like their is no tomorrow. Because of defense, they can have thru-balls as much as they want. I don't know if they still have that strategy because they have a new manager from China and they trained to Korea recently for this match. This was ued to be our strategy, the Azkals use this in the AFF Suzuki Cup 2010 and we got some great results, that's why we beat the hell out of the defending champions Vietnam that day. We used it also to Indonesia but their midfield is so sturdy, we can't get those passed in the box.



That's why in that game, not much counter attacks and we focused more on defense. Indonesia was great on defending plus their fans was pointing laser at Neil Etheridge which obviously did cause the game for us but that Gonazales goal, astounding no laser and stuff. Our fault. We grew as a team now and I think Coach Weiss has changed a lot from a defensive team to a full grown counter-attack squad. I can see that they will do the normal 4-4-2 formation or the 4-1-2-3 formation which are attacking-type formations. I prefer the 4-1-2-3 formation because it will suit their style as a team. The "Quick Counter" team in order to beat Sri Lanka. I hope that Coach Weiss taught his boys on defense, especially in the midfield. Also, the passing, is truly a must. That was one of main problems, especially in the Mongolia fixtures. We didn't get some accurate passes. They can still do the basic like passing in the opposing half's first. Passing through defenders first to maintain possesion and if they find some weak spots into their half, go on and take until we score. It's great that we will have chances if they keep it up tomorrow.

So here's my prediction:

I'd say,

Leg 1 in Colombo: 2-0, Philippines. Goals from Araneta and Guirado. Guirado has that capability of running defenders and yes, he is an attacking midfielder, while Araneta is a great left winger but can reach the box easily for the header. Caligdong and J. Younghusband can make great assist and can score as well. I must not forget P. Younghusband. He can score at any time around 90 minutes. I must also reckon the tight defense of the back 4. I hope they won't allow Sabio to the line-up because of his incosistency but if he does play, he must stepu-p and don't concede any corner kicks, or goals. I know it's hard.

Leg 2 in Manila: 3-1, Philippines. I don't know, probably a hat-trick from someone or it will be a team game. Gotta watch out.

Philippines will win 5-1 on aggregate. Yes, I predicted two lopsided wins for us. I have a feeling we can easily demolish Sri Lanka.

---

I can't wait to see these guys play on the pitch once more. I'll wear my Azkals t-shirt come that day and I wish to buy their new kit on the Mizuno store come Sunday. I heard it's available right now. I wish they ship it early to Festival Mall ASAP. Here's the photo of the new Away kit.



---

Good luck, Azkals!

---

Time: 2:08 a.m.
Where: Still here.
Now Playing: "Fader" by The Temper Trap.

---



---