The Philippine Azkals suffered elimination from the 2020 AFF Suzuki Cup following a 1-2 loss at the hands of the Teerasil Dangda-powered War Elephants, Tuesday evening, at the National Stadium in Singapore.
Needing a win to remain in contention for a final four ticket, the Azkals suffered a major blow in the 26th minute.
Legendary Thai forward Dangda became the record goalscorer in the history of the Suzuki Cup with 18 goals when he performed a spectacular finish to convert Theerathon Bunmathan’s cross.
Things changed for the Filipinos in the second half as they were able to find an equalizer.
The Thais failed to clear away Kevin Ingreso’s free kick. That allowed Patrick Reichelt to score the leveler in the 57th minute.
Unfortunately for the Azkals, they became the victims of a contentious penalty in the 76th minute. Defender Amani Aguinaldo was adjudged by the Omani referee to have fouled Thai substitute midfielder Thitiphan Puangjan. That then allowed Dangda to shoot past Azkals goalie Kevin Hansen in the 78th minute.
With the loss, the Philippines finds itself left with 3 points in Group A. Meanwhile, Thailand increases its tally to 9 points.
Singapore and Timor Leste will play later this evening.
For its final Group A assignment, the Philippines faces Myanmar on Saturday, December 18, 2021. Game time is at 8:30 PM at the National Stadium.
Azkals XI: Mendoza (GK), Nyholm, Ingreso, Ramsay, Guirado, Sato, Aguinaldo, Baas, Schröck ©, Steuble, Reichelt.
War Elephants XI: Chatchai (GK), Theerathon, Manuel, Sarach, Supachok, Teerasil, Thanawat, Narubadin, Phitiwat, Chanathip (C), Kritsada.
