Still long way past group stage for Young Azkals

Young Azkals celebrate after a stunning win over Malaysia in the 2019 SEA Games. Photo by Sherwin Vardeleon/INQUIRER

The Philippines’ hopes of reaching the semifinals of men’s football for the first time in 28 years will also hinge on two crucial Group A matches on Monday at Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Group A leader Myanmar takes on Cambodia at Biñan Football Stadium, while Malaysia and Timor Leste clash in the other 8 p.m. kickoff at Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.

The results of both games will greatly impact the Young Azkals’ chances of advancing past the group stage. A stunning 1-0 win over Malaysia kept the under-22 side in the hunt.

While they’ve been impressive for the larger part of their first three matches, the Young Azkals hope that other results will also go their way in a bid to make it to the medal round.

As it stands, Myanmar, which has seven points from three matches, can advance with at least a draw, leaving the four other squads to dispute the remaining semifinal berth.

Running second with four points and a superior goal difference compared to the Philippines, the Cambodians can also edge closer to the next round with a victory, although they still have to play Malaysia on Wednesday in a potential do-or-die clash.

Malaysia can set the stage for a tense final day of the group stage with a victory over a Timor Leste. INQ