Philippine Azkals prepare for historic Asian Cup debut
The Philippines as a footballing country has come a long way from what it once was during the days of Iloilo-born Barcelona FC netbreaker Paulino Alcantara, notable for his goal scoring record of 369 goals in 357 games that stood the test of time until Leonel Messi who is regarded as one of the best football players of all time, overtook him on March 16, 2014. It is hard to fathom that such a basketball crazy country also excels in a sport that remains uncommon too many Filipinos today. Who could believe that Japan, who took part in the recently concluded World Cup in Russia, recorded its biggest loss in international competition against The Philippines, 15-2? The Azkals is the nickname for the Philippine national football team. The recent influx of fil-foreigners who have plied their skills in competitive leagues in Europe to don the country's colors have revitalized interest for a sport that has long played second fiddle. Drawing from the so-called "Miracle of Hano...