Azkals rue lost chances vs Thailand

The Philippine Azkals left Rizal Memorial Stadium Saturday night with  mixed feelings.

The Azkals sent a chilling message to heavily favored Thailand after holding the three-time champions to a scoreless draw in the first leg of their AFF Suzuki Cup semifinal clash.

And while the Azkals can take comfort at another fine performance that allowed them to push a long-time conqueror on the ropes, there’s also a feeling of regret as they let a golden opportunity slip, which could haunt them on Wednesday, when the second leg is played at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok.

Still, the draw—the first between the two teams since the tournament started in 1994—was another remarkable result for the Azkals who felt that a goal was the only thing lacking in their game.

The home side also enjoyed a man advantage in the last 20 minutes after Adisak Kaisorn was sent off for an elbow on Amangi Aguinaldo.

Hot favorites to win the title this year, the Thais also came into the match with a 14-game winning streak over the Philippines.

But the Thais found a resolute Azkals side too tough to break down in a strong indication that the Philippines has closed in on the quality of the proud footballing nation.

“Before the game I would have taken zero-zero, but now after the game I feel it is a shame we did not score and win,” said Azkals coach Thomas Dooley, whose squad leaves for Bangkok today.

“It’s a good result going into the second leg,” said Azkals manager Dan Palami. “Considering that it was Thailand, the best team in the other group, I think we acquitted ourselves well.”

With the away-goals rule enforced, a scoring draw will also be enough for the Azkals to advance to the finals for the first time.

“Over the past few days I could sense a growing confidence,” Dooley continued. “We didn’t win but we should be happy with the way we played.”

Thailand coach Kiatisuk Senamuang remains upbeat that his wards can still progress, despite the impending absence of top strikers Kaisorn due to suspension and Kirati Keawsumbit, who limped off due to a hamstring injury.

“The Philippine team was very strong,” said Senamuang, who won the tournament three times as a player.

“It was difficult when we got the red card. It made it difficult for us tactically. It (the red card) was just a tackle but the referee thought something else. But we respect the referee.”