Matches today (Rizal Memorial Stadium)
4 p.m. – Global vs Green Archers
6:15 p.m. – JP Voltes vs Forza
8:30 p.m. – Loyola Meralco vs Pasargad
MANILA, Philippines - Global and Green Archers seek a strong follow-up to their impressive opening weekend victories when they clash today even as JP Voltes tries to make it two in a row against Forza in Group A of the UFL Cup at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
With Fil-Iranian midfielder Omid Nazari firing a hattrick in his debut, Global rolled to a 7-0 demolition of Pasargad last Saturday to grab the headstart in a tough Group B.
Not to be outdone, the Archers launched their campaign in style by overpowering Nomads, 4-0, last Sunday. The winner of the Archers-Global clash can claim top spot in the tournament’s group of death which includes reigning league champion Ceres-La Salle FC.
The Loyola Meralco Sparks shoot for their first victory against a dangerous Pasargad in another Group B clash at 8:30 p.m.
The Sparks suffered a heartbreaking 1-2 loss to Ceres last Sunday when Carlie de Murga’s stoppage time header proved to be the difference between the two powerhouse sides.
But Loyola coach Simon McMenemy can take courage from the performances of new signings Kou Ichi Belgica who acquitted himself well at leftback and Jinggoy Valmayor, who scored five minutes into his entry at the hour mark.
Phil Younghusband remains doubtful due to a knee injury, but the Sparks also have concerns defensively with first choice centerback Adam Mitter out due to suspension and Joaco Canas still sidelined by an ankle injury.
Global unveiled a gem of a recruit in Nazari whose pace and clinical finishing was on full display against Pasargad. Global coach Leigh Manson expects more from the former Swedish first division player.
“Omid gives us a different dimension in the role that we have asked him to play,” said Manson. “His skills and his knowledge of the game is very high and he works hard in training.”
The Archers also pose a threat with veterans Chieffy Caligdong and Tating Pasilan combining well with new signings Gary Epesso and Lee Joo-young in the win against Nomads last week.
Lee and Epesso scored in the second half along with Hussein Doust and Jimwell Arriola as Archers underlined their title credentials.
JP Voltes which opened their Cup campaign with an impressive 3-0 victory over Laos last Saturday will face a Forza side that narrowly escaped Agila 1-0 in its season debut. A win by JP Voltes will push the Japanese-flavored side to the top of Group A which includes defending champion Kaya and Stallion.