Game Wednesday
(Panaad Stadium, Bacolod City)
7:30 p.m. – Philippines vs Thailand
The capability of the Philippine Azkals to win the AFF Suzuki Cup will be tested Wednesday night when they take on defending two-time champion Thailand in what is expected to be a rain-drenched Panaad Stadium in Bacolod City.
After posting victories over Singapore and Timor-Leste, the Azkals get a chance to prove their worth against the War Elephants in a battle for the lead in Group B and gain closer toward a spot in the semifinals.
Not only will the Azkals look to weather the strong Thai side but also the weather conditions with Tropical Depression Samuel likely to create wet conditions in the City of Smiles.
Despite getting two wins, the Azkals are still groping for form after almost squandering a three-goal against Timor-Leste before holding on for a 3-2 victory in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The Azkals also needed a Patrick Reichelt goal in the 78th minute last week to seal a 1-0 home win over Singapore.
Phil Younghusband will be tasked to lead the attack for the Azkals even as Michael Falkesgaard is likely to make his second straight cap after starting in place of Neil Etheridge in the match with Timor-Leste.
Falkesgaard is going to have his hands full against a Thai side that has scored 11 goals in two matches against Timor-Leste and Indonesia.
The Azkals backline is looking to neutralize Thailand’s top scorer Adisak Kraison, who has produced seven goals in the competition. (Jonas Terrado)
