FILE–Philippine Azkals. AZKALS PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine Azkals fell short in their comeback bid and lost to host Singapore, 2-1, to open their campaign in the AFF Suzuki Cup Wednesday night at National Stadium.
After a goalless first half, Singapore struck twice over a three-minute span with Hariss Harun first to find the back of the net in the 61st minute.
Faris Ramli doubled Singapore’s lead in the 63rd minute.
📸 | 🇵🇭 Philippines 0-0 🇸🇬 Singapore
🤼♂️ It's been a feisty affair so far at the National Stadium!
🤔 Who will break the deadlock?#AFFSuzukiCup2020 | #RivalriesNeverDie | #PHIvSGP pic.twitter.com/ILrAj4ezO0
— ASEAN United FC (@aseanutdfc) December 8, 2021
Amin Nazari put the Filipinos on the board in the 69th minute but the Lions, guarding against complacency, did just enough to secure full three points to lead Group A.
Singapore dumped Myanmar, 3-0, on Monday.
The Azkals take on Timor-Leste, which is 0-2, next on Saturday.
Only the top two teams in each group will move on to the semifinals.