Ilonggo booter saves the day for Azkals

THE Philippine Men’s National Football Team kept their unbeaten streak alive in the 2018 AFF Suzuki Cup after holding defending champions Thailand to a 1-1 draw, Wednesday evening at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod.

After a scoreless first half, the powerhouse War Elephants gained the upper hand after a defensive lapse led to a 56th minute conversion from Supachai Jaided.

The Pinoy side found a spark in the form of Jovin Bedic, who brought energy into the match as the native of Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo found the equalizer with less than ten minutes to go, bringing the Panaad crowd to their feet.

Thailand had one more chance to escape with the win with a free kick in the dying moments of the match, but keeper Michael Falkesgaard came up with the fantastic save.

With the draw, the Azkals remain unbeaten in the 2018 Suzuki Cup as they improve to seven points, good for second in Group B.

Thailand remains on top, also with seven points but with a significant lead in goal difference.

Up next for the Azkals will be a crucial Group Stage-closing matchup with Indonesia in Jakarta on Sunday, November 25th.

With Singapore just one point behind, the Azkals will need to secure the victory to ensure a second place finish and entry to the knockout stage.

Singapore will have their work cut out for them as they meet Thailand next.

SOURCE: The Daily Guardian

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