Philippine Azkals, the country’s national football team, has qualified for the first time to the 2019 AFC Asian Cup after beating Tajikistan in a come-from-behind fashion, 2-1, on Tuesday evening at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
The AFC Asian Cup, which will be held in United Arab Emirates in January 2019, will be the team’s debut in the prestigious tournament battling against the best of the whole Asia.
The team’s hopes to make the country proud almost fell into pieces when Tajikistan’s Nazarov Akhtam drew first blood in the 66th minute after managing to score a goal off a penalty kick past Azkals goalkeeper Neil Etheridge.
Azkals’ Kevin Ingrosso, however, struck a counter-goal 10 minutes after with a headed goal that equalized the game at 1-1.
At the 89th minute, Azkals skipper Phil Younghusband scored the winning goal off a penalty kick which secured the win for the team.
The score not only sealed the history for the team but for Younghusband as well who recorded his 50th goal in his international career.
FT: PHI ?? 2 – 1 TJK ??
The Philippines confirm their place in the #AsianCup2019 after a victory at home against Tajikistan! #ACQ2019 pic.twitter.com/13NIPUILrU
— #AsianCup2019 (@afcasiancup) March 27, 2018
With the win, Philippines secures first spot in Group F with 12 points and qualifies as one of the top 24 teams who will compete in AFC Cup.
Meet the 24 teams that will be competing in the #AsianCup2019! pic.twitter.com/Le3fG95UEh
— #AsianCup2019 (@afcasiancup) March 27, 2018
Philippines will face powerhouse teams in Asia including Saudi Arabia, Japan, Korea, and Australia.
Photo credit; Inquirer Sports
