Azkals blank Bangladesh, qualify for AFC Cup

MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATE 2) Needing a win to qualify for the AFC Challenge Cup and earn a place in local sports history, the Azkals did both by defeating Bangladesh, 3-0, in the group stages.

Filipino-Spanish Angel Guirado peppered Bengal’s keeper in the 54th and 80th minute after Iloilo striker Ian Araneta broke an 11-game dry spell when he kickstarted the assault for the Azkals in the 41st minute.

It was the first win by the Philippines, who drew against Myanmar and Palestine, since upsetting Vietnam, 2-0, in the AFF Suzuki Cup last year.

Palestine, who finished off Myanmar 3-1 in the other game and will also qualify for the competition proper, topped the group with seven points while the Philippines tallied five points.

Host Myanmar came in last with one point next to Bangladesh with three points.

Each win is equivalent to three points and a draw, a point.

A win was all that the Azkals needed as another draw would have eliminated them and sent Bangladesh through to the next round.

Palestine and the Azkals will join India, Maldives, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan which have qualified from their respective groups.

The Azkals’ win marks the first time that a Philippine football team has qualified for the AFC Challenge Cup.