PH Azkals bow to North Korea, 0-2 in AFC Challenge Cup

MANILA, Philippines — Failing to sustain its strong first half, the Philippines bowed to powerhouse North Korea, 0-2, Friday to open up its campaign in the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup at the Halchowk Stadium in Nepal.

Pak Nam Chol broke the dry spell with a header in the 57th minute before Jang Kuk Chol extended the gap for North Korea in the 68th minute.

Fil-British Neil Etheridge made his presence felt with stellar goalkeeping in the first half, including a timely save on a penalty kick by Pak Song Chol.