AFC Challenge Cup Qualifiers: PH, Turkmenistan still scoreless at the half

AZKALS VS TURKEMENISTAN  Chris Greatwich (18) photo by August dela Cruz/INQUIRER

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines got good looks but just couldn’t capitalize as it settles for a scoreless first half against Turkmenistan in the Group E Qualifying of the AFC Challenge Cup.

The Azkals, who have virtually earned a slot in the AFC Challenge Cup after an 8-0 win over Cambodia last Monday, almost drew an early goal from striker Phil Younghusband but his attempt got denied by the post.

Younghusband, who obliterated Cambodia with four goals, had another crack at goal on a good ball by Javier Patiño but this time it was wide left.

Turkmenistan, who also thrashed Cambodia, 7-0, last Friday to also qualify for the Challenge Cup, gave the Azkals a scare with two consecutive on goal attempts.

Angel Guirado’s header in the 17th minute was also a close goal for the Azkals before it went over the bar.

Two players from the Azkals side got booked with a yellow card while none for Turkmenistan.

Chris Greatwich was issued in the 22nd minute after a stiff challenge while Younghusband accidentally hit the ball with his arm while going for it on a corner.