The odds were up our favor: PHL nips TKN, 1-nil

Here are some photos from the awesome football game we watched last Tuesday night at the Rizal Stadium. The Philippines and Turkmenistan battled it out for the top position in Category E—the surest ticket to the AFC Cup in Maldives on 2014. Before Tuesday’s game, the Philippine Azkals were able to secure a sure win against the Cambodians, 8-nil. Given such, they only have to get one goal to ensure a clear edge against the Turkmens (12-10) or at the very least go for a draw to protect their overall lead in the category (11-10). That night was more jampacked than the Sunday match against the Khmers. The weather was also good so the match’s good to go. There was also an added thrill because the Azkals were underdogs yet again. They never won a game before against the Turkmens so the pressure to push for a draw or get at least a single goal was relatively high. Nonetheless, we scored a goal and won the game! The Philippine team is going to Maldives next March and attempt to win the AFC cup. We’re hoping they win. In the meantime, here are some of the pictures I took during the game:

Angel Guirado tries to get past the Turkmen player.

Ref whistles for a change in possession.

Ball will be released.

Seriously watching the play.

Meanwhile, a young girl takes advantage of the Kris-James recent rift. Leggo, Team Azkals!

That's your cheering crowd right after Phil scores a goal. :D

Behind the railings. Players wave to their fans. :D

With the birthday boy.

Brader and me. :D