MANILA, Philippines — Chieffy Caligdong struck a goal in the 19th minute and Phil Younghusband doubled the score in the 43rd minute to give the Philippines a 2-0 lead over Sri Lanka at halftime in the 2014 Fifa World Cup Qualifiers at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Sunday.
The Fil-British Younghusband have been on the attack since the get go, despite a muddy and slippery pitch, with his shots either sailing wide or being gathered by the Sri Lankan keeper.
The Philippines’ second goal was first called off side, but was officially counted after a huddle by the referees.
Midfielder Fil-German Stephan Schrock lost his cool in a scuffle and was booked for his second yellow card of the entire leg.
Schrock may be suspended in the next game of the Azkals.
Heavy rain met the kickoff of the second leg between the Azkals and the Red Braves at the 77-year-old Rizal Stadium in Manila.
The Azkals are up two goals and an away goal on aggregate as the Philippines hope to advance to the second round of the qualifiers for the first time in this country’s football history.