By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Philippine Azkals Under-19 national football team scored a major win during the AFC Asian Cup after breaking the hearts of Afghanistan, 1-0, held at the Al-Saadah Sports Sports Complex in Oman.
After a disappointing loss against the host nation during their opening match, the young Filipino booters got a much-needed victory to end their campaign on a high note.
The Azkals faced a dangerous Afghanistan team that took down Oman during their previous match and were looking for a fine finish in Group G.
However, the Filipinos adjusted quickly and stuck with their game plan of doubling their effort in their backline defense.
During their match against Oman, the Azkals gave up three goals all in the first half and faced various problems holding their last line of defense.
It was a different Azkals squad versus Afghanistan as the national team sent quick defense help when the opposition got past the midfield area.
Despite the several sets run by Afghanistan, the Filipinos held their ground and managed to keep them scoreless the entire duel.
All efforts paid off for the Azkals with seven minutes remaining in the match after stalwart Kamil Jaser Amirul found the back of the net for the first and only goal.
It was a beautifully executed 1-2 punch after Jaime Rosquillo’s precise assist to the surging Amirul near Afghanistan’s penalty area.
With the win, the Filipinos concluded the international tournament with a third-place finish in Group G with three points.
