The real challenge for the Philippine Azkals begin today as they face host Myanmar White Angels, for their first assignment in the Group Stage of the AFC Challenge Cup.

Scheduled to start 7 p.m. (Phil. time), the match will be played at the Youth Training Center in Myanmar capital, Rangoon.

After missing the March 15 second game against Mongolia in Ulan Bator, Neil Etheridge is back as Azkals’ goalkeeper. However, striker Phil Younghusband was not given the go signal to play due to a hamstring injury.

Earlier, Azkals’ co-captain Chieffy Caligdong, expressed his disappointment for the 1-2 loss in Ulan Bator last week.

Caligdong said the below zero degree temperature was simply too much for them, affecting their movement and defensive reaction.

The Ilonggo player, who scored the opening goal for Azkals during the Feruary 9 game at the Panaad Park and Sports Stadium said they will give their best to win in Rangoon and advance to the next stage.

Despite missing the services of Phil Younghusband, there will be several newcomers to the team, who will the complete the lineup today against the White Angels.

The Azkals will be boosted by Fil-German Patrick Hinrichsen, David Basa of the University of Sto. Tomas, Yannick Tuason of the Kaya club and La Salle, Fil-Spanish striker Angel Aldeguer Guirado of Spanish Division III club Deportivo Ronda of Malaga, Laguna-born 29-year-old Filipino-German William Espinosa and 24-year-old Army midfielder Ricardo Becite.

Aside from Caligdong and Etheridge, also listed in the lineup are captain Aly Borromeo, James Younghusband, Rob Gier, Jason Sabio, reserve keeper Edward Sacapano, Roel Gener, Ray Johnsson, Simon Greatwich and Anton Del Rosario.*NAB

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