Injury-hit Azkals less four key players in AFC Challenge Cup final
The Azkals celebrate with Filipinos at National Stadium in Male after their 3-2 win over Maldives. CEDELF TUPAS/INQUIRER
MANILA, Philippines—Defeated Philippine Azkals missed four key players in the final of the Asian Football Confederation Challenge Cup in Maldives.
The Philippine soccer team had four of its members—goalkeeper Neil Etheridge, full-back Dennis Cagara, center-back Juan Guirado and striker Ruben Doctora—unable to play at the National Football Stadium early Saturday morning due to injuries.
Palestine qualified for their maiden Asian Cup appearance with a 1-0 win over the Philippine team.
Ashraf Alfawaghra scored the winner with a free kick in the 59th minute to help Palestine, ranked 34th in Asia, enjoy a memorable night at the stadium in Male.
Azkals ranked 140 in the world and 21st in Asia.
Palestine, who ended the eight-nation tournament without conceding a goal in five matches, booked a place in the Asian Cup to be held in Australia next January.
They will be placed in group D of the continental showpiece alongside defending champions Japan, Jordan and Iraq. Agence France-Presse
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