Asian Cup: Azkals impress in loss to South Korea
Source: Cedelf Tupas, Philippine Daily Inquirier
The result was not ideal, but it was a memorable debut nonetheless for the Philippines in the AFC Asian Cup. The Azkals held their ground against powerhouse South Korea before conceding in the second half as they fell to a 0-1 defeat in their first AFC Asian Cup match at Al Maktoum Stadium here.
Playing with laser-like focus against a side that regularly plays in the World Cup, the Azkals defended stoutly and looked dangerous on the counterattack for 65 minutes, before they were left undone by a classy finish from Hwang Uijo.
The Korean striker turned and rifled the ball past Michael Falkesgaard, bringing relief to his side that struggled to break down the disciplined and well-drilled Azkals, who are the lowest ranked side in Group C at No. 116.
His best chance came early in the second half when he broke free on the left only to fire a tamed effort straight at Kim Seunggyu. Patino had a volley saved by Kim on the counter late in the second half.