Monday, July 4, 2011

What Went Right For The Azkals?

Everyone is still riding high on the euphoria of the Azkals' 4-0 victory over Sri Lanka's Brave Reds. In fact, the Azkals that showed up for yesterday's game seemed totally different from the ones that played 5 days ago.

It's time to break down what went right for the Azkals in this game.

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Azkals Win 4-0 Over Sri Lanka!

It was an unbelievable performance from the Azkals as they added 2 more goals in the second half, one from a breakaway by Angel Guirado and another from a penalty kick by Phil Younghusband.

But more than that, it was the crisp passing from the midfield and the tenacious defense that was the biggest difference in this match.

The Azkals have now rewritten history, becoming the first Philippine team to qualify for the second round of the World Cup Qualifiers.

Next up, Kuwait.

Azkals 2, Sri Lanka 0: Halftime!

This is an entirely different Azkals team from the one we saw a couple of days ago.

Right from the first minute, the Azkals were aggressive, speedy and highly technical in their attack against Sri Lanka.

They rained shot attempts on the Brave Reds, which was fitting as the rain poured down.

Chieffy Caligdong showed impeccable footwork as he wheeled in the box to boot in a goal from a Phil Youghusband header.

Phil Younghusband then pounced on a defensive mistake by the Sri Lanka defense to fake the Brave Reds goalie out of his shoes and boot in a controversial goal. Controversial by virtue of a linesman raising a flag to signal a fould on Younghusband but being overruled by the ref and assistant ref.

It should be an interesting second half for the Azkals.

Phil Younghusband Scores! Azkals 2, Sri Lanka 0!

Phil Younghusband capitalizes on a Sri Lankan mistake and scores a controversial goal!

Caligdong Scores! Azkals 1, Sri Lanka 0!

Chieffy Caligdong with a magnificent shot of the post to score one for the Philippines in the 20th minute! Phil Younghusband with the assist!

30 Minutes Before Kick-Off!

We've got 30 minutes left before the Azkals continue on their quest to rewrite history.

For the Azkals to emerge victorious, here are 3 crucial things that must happen:
Guirado, Phil Younghusband and Schrock must dominate up front. The trio must become a cohesive offensive force that should force the Sri Lankan defense to errors and gambles. An early goal can mean a more desperate Brave Reds team and more chances for the Azkals to capitalize.