MANILA, Philippines – The Pacman had some special visitors at training camp on Saturday (Sunday in Manila).
Philippine soccer sensations Azkals met and watched Manny Pacquiao train for his upcoming fight against “Sugar” Shane Mosley over the weekend.
The Pacman sparred 11 rounds against 4 boxers during his Saturday’s training session.
"He's one intense character. The guy is nonstop all day. I got a new respect for him," said Azkals defender Anton del Rosario.
When the Pacman is not concentrating on his game, he follows the Azkals, hoping they, too, can bring national pride to the Philippiness.
"I have to support them and pray lagi manalo sa bout, laban at laro. And it's an honor nandito sila sa training ko today," the Fighter of the Decade said.
Team Pacquiao even showed the Azkal players a few training and conditioning tips.
"It was great watching him train and even his footwork, he can probably step on the pitch with us," Azkals team captain Aly Borromeo said.
The Azkals just hosted an open tryout in the Bay Area.
After their weekend meeting, the football players went back to Northern California to play some club games. They will return to the Philippines later this month.
In the meantime, Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach--fresh of ward Amir Kahn's victory--is expected to rejoin Team Pacquiao on Monday (Tuesday, in Manila).
For the Azkals, it was a dream come true to watch their idol practice. They are hoping the Pacman's winning ways can rub off on them when they begin their quest for a World Cup in June.
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