FILE–Philippine Azkals. AZKALS PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine Azkals bowed out of semifinals contention after a 1-2 loss to Thailand in the 2020 AFF Suzuki Cup on Tuesday at National Stadium in Singapore.
Teerasil Dangda pulled the plug on the Azkals’ bid and propelled the Thais into the semis with a brace—the last coming off a penalty in the 78th minute.
Patrick Reichelt delivered the equalizer in the 57th that fanned the Philippines’ hopes but only to be denied a fifth semifinals appearance in Southeast Asia’s most prestigious football tournament.
🎥 HIGHLIGHTS | 🇵🇭 Philippines 1-2 Thailand 🇹🇭
🐘 Led by a record-breaking performance from Teerasil Dangda, the War Elephants are through to the next round!#AFFSuzukiCup2020 | #RivalriesNeverDie | #PHIvTHA pic.twitter.com/0QZP1Lyznh
— AFF Suzuki Cup (@affsuzukicup) December 14, 2021
Dangda gave his team the headstart in the 26th minute. The Thai skipper, who also struck twice in a 4-0 win over Myanmar on Saturday, now has 19 goals in the AFF Suzuki Cup.
Heading into the clash with Thailand, the Azkals needed at least a draw to stay in the semis hunt.
The loss brought down the Philippines’ record to two losses and only three points.
The Azkals hope to end their campaign on a winning note against Myanmar on Saturday.