Azkals lost the game and still won the hearts of Pinoys in Kuwait

Kuwait vs. Philippines, Qadsiya Stadium, July 23, 2011 (Photo by the Author)

Filipino Pride is alive in Kuwait as the much anticipated World Cup qualifying match between Kuwait and the Philippine Azkals was played yesterday (23 July) at the Qadsiya Stadium in Hawally, Kuwait. At least 70% of the capacity crowd were Filipinos--solid fans, plain supporters and curious spectators alike--who were off from work, have probably asked for a leave or simply skipped their duties for the day. They braved the 46-47 degree late afternoon heat, the traffic in the area and the queue and near stampede at the gates just to be in there at least 2 hours before the game.

The seating for the area was arranged so that Filipinos occupy one half of the stadium and Kuwaitis on the other half. But there are still a lot of people waiting outside the gates! Minutes before the game, more people-mostly Pinoys- were allowed in to the Kuwait side until all seats were taken. As it seems, it’s a home game for Filipinos as we filled the stadium..I know we have a large population working in Kuwait but in my years of stay here, I have never seen that huge number of Pinoys all in one place..it was an amazing sight!

The Azkals singing the National Anthem  during the Opening Ceremonies (Photo by the Author)

Inside the stadium, the energy was so high, the anticipation growing as the time draws near..fans were ecstatic even before the players enter the field..mostly wearing their Azkals shirts, some with waving flags, banners and even face paintings to show their support..the feeling reached fever-pitch when one by one, the players hit the grass and started their warm ups..the chants, cheers and screams were so loud I can’t even hear myself!

The same level of energy was sustained at game time until a Kuwaiti striker head home the first goal at the 17th minute of the match and even until the end of first half with Kuwait maintaining its 1-0 lead....we continued to cheer keeping the upbeat mood though everybody's already drenched in sweat..By the second half, everyone can sense the Azkals are already showing signs of exhaustion, due mainly to the sweltering summer heat while the Kuwaiti team is gearing up to deliver the finish. A small scramble at the post resulted to a Kuwait goal at the 67th minute but the crowd almost failed to notice..it even took some time before it appeared in the huge scoreboard..by then, Pinoy fans started feeling restless...It was not so long after when Kuwait delivered its final blow, a solid goal from the middle that left everyone stunned..With so little time left, that should be it for this match..Some fans already sensing defeat, started flocking to the exits but still a good number stayed behind, us included..

The Final Score. Kuwait 3, Azkals 0. (Photo by the Author)

When the game ends, right after the congratulatory handshakes for the winning Kuwaiti team, the Azkals ran next to the stands and acknowledged their countless supporters...it was a gracious exit for the team as they waved and thanked the Kuwait-based Pinoys who came in droves and cheered for them till the end.

Azkals acknowledging the crowd after the match.  (Photo by the Author)

Outside the stadium, while walking towards our parking spot, we passed by some Kuwaiti teenagers playfully taunting us for the score but we proudly showed them our "Go Azkals" placards and continued walking..Another group of Kuwaitis were walking next to us and one of them offered me a packet of Sunflower seeds. I politely said "No, thanks" and instead gestured towards my daughter..He then handed it over to her..I tap the back of the teen and said "Thanks" and "Nice game"..he just smiled back..I think it’s what the game was all about, just a friendly match between two friendly nations..

Though defeated, I know every Pinoy left the stadium happy and proud..The Azkals may have lost the game but they've earned thousands more of supporters and the respect of the Kuwaiti audiences..I can only wish them Good Luck for their second match against Kuwait to be played in the Philippines on July 28...

Go Azkals!