Fans fill up Rizal Stadium ahead of Philippine Azkals’ match with Sri Lanka

MANILA, Philippines — Thirty minutes before the Philippines-Sri Lanka kick off, Azkals supporters of all sorts are slowly filling up the Rizal Memorial Stadium Sunday afternoon.

Crowd clad in mostly blue and white came, others with faces painted with the Philippine flag and some wearing their favorite players’ replica jersey.

The Kaholeros, the boosters squad of the Azkals, have occupied a part of the bleachers as early as 10 a.m. with their flat bottomed water gallons serving as drums.

Players from both squads have entered the coliseum for their pre-game warm up to the delight of the fans.

The Azkals, out to defend their precarious away goal advantage, will don a navy blue gear with golden print.

The 77-year-old Rizal Stadium, renovated for the match, is surrounded with heavy security inside and outside.