UFL Cup champion Global and JP Voltes eye their second victories and the share of the early lead when they face separate rivals today in the United Football League at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Global takes on sister team Laos in the second game at 4 p.m. after JP Voltes battles Nomads in the 2 p.m. opener.
Misagh Bahadoran is expected to play the starring role anew for Global after scoring two goals in Sunday’s 4-2 victory over Stallion in the club’s season-opening match.
Bahadoran’s performance against Stallion continued his rise into one of the country’s best footballers, which Global coach Leigh Manson credited for his work ethics in training.
“What happened to Misagh over the past year is not accidental. Its hardwork,” said Manson. “It’s having very, very high personal standards. One of the reasons why he’s the captain is the fact that he epitomizes Global and he carries on that legacy for Global.”
Laos hopes to avoid absorbing its second straight loss after being pummeled 10-2 by Kaya exactly a week ago.
Meanwhile, JP Voltes, a team composed of Filipino and Japanese expatriates, got off to a strong start as well when it crushed Pasargad, 6-0.
J Baguioro gave Voltes a fast start in its maiden foray in a top-flight competition by netting a hat trick against Pasargad.