James Younghusband’s goal in the 76th minute off a penalty had every football follower in the country cheering for the Philippine Azkals but 14 minutes later, host Myanmar White Angels scored the equalizer to end the game in 1-all draw in the AFC Challenge Cup group stage played at the Youth Training Center in Yangon, Myanmar.

Debuting for the Azkals, Fil-Spanish Angel Guirado Aldeguer keyed the play for Ilonggo Santi Barsales who was fouled in the rush by Myanmar’s keeper.

Not missing the chance to score for the team, James Younghusband converted the penalty.

But just as everyone started celebrating, the White Angels found the opportunity to score through a free-kick from 25 yards for the 1-all draw.

With goalkeeper Neil Etheridge back in the lineup, the Azkals were observed to be more relaxed in playing against the White Angels.

The tempo of the game, however, started to change as the host squad engaged the Filipinos in a well-fought scoreless first half.

Reports from the pinoyfootbal website, said the Philippine team started with the 4-2-3-1 formation but encountered hard resistance from the White Angels in the midfield.

It was a strong first half for Myanmar but Etheridge executed outstanding saves, reports said.

Next game for the Azkals will be tomorrow against Palestine and on Friday, the team will go up against Bangladesh.*NAB

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