ALL HAIL CHIEFFY. Chieffy Caligdong scored the lone goal of the match in the Azkals' crucial victory over Vietnam. File photo by Anton Sheker.

MANILA, Philippines - The Suzuki Cup 2012 semi-finals is finally here.

Anticipation is palpable in the air as the Philippines faces 3-time AFF Suzuki Cup winners Singapore in the first leg of the semifinal tie between the two sides at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Manila on Saturday, December 8.

The match is historic for Filipinos as this will be the Azkals’ first-ever home game in the biennial competition.

Back in 2010, the Philippines had to endure the intimidating atmosphere of Jakarta’s Gelora Bung Karno Stadium twice as the country then had no suitable venue to host the home tie. The Philippines eventually fell to the Indonesian team 2-0 on aggregate, losing both ties 1-0.

This time around the Philippines can witness their team make history in their second semi-finals appearance in a row.

Read more about the game here and follow our live blog below:

- Rappler.com