Don Bosco Technical College (DBTC) and Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu (SHS-AdC) are set to renew Cebu’s fiercest rivalry when they clash in Elan Vita Diagnostic Solutions presents “El Clasico Deux on Saturday, June 27, at the Dynamic Herb-Borromeo Sports Complex.
The rematch will bring together the best alumni from both schools to rekindle a rivalry that serves as a a fundraiser for the football programs of both institutions.
“This is part two of last year’s ‘El Clasico.’ It will still be the same—a fundraising event for both schools’ varsity programs,” said event organizer Chad Songalia.
Last year’s edition delivered plenty of drama, with DBTC emerging victorious after edging SHS-AdC, 4-3, in a penalty shootout at the Cebu City Sports Center. While the Bosconians enter the rematch with the psychological advantage and what many consider a deeper lineup, team captain and Maharlika FC goalkeeper Kenry Balobo believes nothing can be taken for granted.
“Maybe this year it will be even more exciting. There is no easy game in football. Anything can happen, and any team can win,” Balobo said.
Both squads have spent nearly a month preparing for the showdown and are putting the finishing touches on rosters of more than 30 players each. DBTC will feature at least five current varsity players but will be without Kamil Amirul, who is currently playing for Malaysia Super League side Penang FC. SHS-AdC, meanwhile, will miss the services of standout players Leo Maquiling and Kintaro Miyagi.
Despite being viewed by some as the underdogs, the Magis Eagles remain confident they have the talent to challenge their longtime rivals.
“We’re expecting a great match. We have two of the greatest high school football teams in Cebu. We know the Don Bosco alumni represent the best that their school has produced. But we’re prepared. We also have plenty of quality players, and we’re looking forward to a great game,” said SHS-AdC’s Pomeroy John Veloso.
To ensure everyone gets a chance to play, the match will be contested over three 40-minute periods, allowing both teams to rotate their deep squads throughout the game.
Fans can also look forward to a full day of football action, as the elementary and high school teams of both schools will square off in preliminary matches before the alumni take center stage. Tickets will be available for purchase at the venue.