Things fans have to put up with to watch game

Manila, Philippines - Going to Rizal Memorial Stadium to watch today’s match between the Azkals and Sri Lanka Brave Reds?

Here are some reminders to help make your Sunday afternoon gig as hassle-free and comfy as possible in the midst of tight security:

Make sure you have a ticket since only ticketholders will be allowed to enter the Rizal premises. And not one of the 12,873 tickets printed will also be sold at the gates on match day.

Likewise, see to it that you don’t bring the following items, which the organizers have listed as prohibited articles, to the venue:

* Food and drink (may be purchased inside control access areas)

* Cigarettes, lighters

* Professional still and video cameras

*Laser pens and pointers

* Weapons and/or any sharp objects

*Candles, fireworks or any type of pyrotechnics

* Glass bottles, PET bottles, cans, hard plastic containers

* Posters/banners/ signages with any political slogan or advertising without the express written approval from Fifa or local organizers

* Large backpacks and waist packs

* Alcoholic Beverages

* Illegal Drugs

*Large chains, bracelets, spike bracelets, wallet chains, metal belt buckles

* Balloons

* Chairs

Umbrellas will not be allowed, too, so bring raincoats and hats in case of rains.

Organizers will also require pregnant women and parents with children below age 12 to sign a waiver prior to entry.

Around 2,000 security personnel, including police, security guards and bouncers, will be deployed to ensure the safety of the spectators. Two ambulances and a firetruck will be on standby and first aid stations will be set up at each of the 11 gate exits.

“We’re organizing the match as if it’s a (major) concert (of an international pop icon) because it’s a very big event,” Cathy Rivilla, general coordinator of the home match said a day before the kickoff.

“Security will be tight. We don’t want to scrimp on security. This is an international event and it will be seen worldwide. We want to make sure if we can manage Justin Bieber, we can also manage Fifa World Cup,” Rivilla said.