Philippines’ striker Chima Uzoka admits enduring sleepless nights as his struggles continued in the men’s football competition of the Southeast Asian Games.
The Young Azkals may still be in the hunt for a first semifinals appearance in 28 years, but Uzoka’s performance has come under scrutiny after missing a host of chances in the first three matches.
“I’m staying positive,” said the 21-year-old Uzoka, who grew up in Nigeria but traces his roots in Bicol province.
“I understand there’s a lot of pressure and there are big expectations. I’ve lost a bit of confidence, but I should keep going because these things happen. I’m happy the coaches and my teammates continue to believe in me.”
Now more than ever, the Young Azkals need the former National University striker to deliver as they take on Timor Leste at 8 p.m. on Wednesday in their final group stage match at Biñan Football Stadium.
With Myanmar already clinching a spot in the medal round after a 2-1 win over Cambodia on Monday, Malaysia, Cambodia and the Philippines are left to fight for the remaining berth in Group A.
And the Young Azkals’ chances hinge on Uzoka finding his scoring touch again as they need a big win to take the second spot with goal difference as the first tiebreaker.
Malaysia whipped Timor Leste, 4-0, to tie Cambodia and Philippines at four points. Cambodia’s goal difference is at plus-4, but it also has to play Malaysia (+3) on Wednesday.
The most ideal scenario for the Young Azkals is a victory coupled by a draw between Malaysia and Cambodia. But a victory either by Malaysia or Cambodia means the Philippines would need to make up the goal difference. The goals scored and the fair play criteria will come into play should the teams remain level after the first tiebreaker.
Meanwhile, just before the weather turned for the worst in New Clark City, the Philippine baseball team secured a 12-0 victory over Cambodia to remain unbeaten.
It was the second straight win for the Philippines, which defeated tough rival Thailand, 3-2, in Monday’s opener.
Thailand blasted Singapore, 12-7, in the other match at The Villages fields here.
Another win will place the Philippines closer to the gold medal round where it is expected to face Thailand. INQ