The Philippine Azkals want nothing less than secure a victory in their first trip to Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta for the first time in almost eight years as they seek a semifinals berth against Indonesia Sunday night in their final AFF Suzuki Cup group stage match.
Getting the full three points in the 7 p.m. local time (8 p.m. Manila time) encounter will put the Azkals in the semis, though a loss by Singapore in their match against Thailand in their match in Bangkok is also enough for coach Sven-Goran Eriksson’s side to seal a top two finish in Group B.
Thailand and Philippines are level at seven points apiece, one clear of third-running Singapore. Indonesia is out of semis contention with three points while Timor-Leste lost all four matches in the group stage.
The Azkals head to Bung Karno as favorites, a stark contrast to their previous meeting in the same venue in the 2010 Suzuki Cup semis when Indonesia won the two-legged affair, 2-0, on aggregate.
Azkals team manager Dan Palami, however, warned that Indonesia is keen on ending its dismal campaign on a bright note.
“I think with how we played based on the trend of development of how we play, I think we could achieve in Indonesia,” Palami said. “Of course, we cannot take for granted the home support of Indonesia which will give them extra energy.
“I just hope the players will cope with it and play in accordance of how we should play,” added Palami.
Erikkson was pleased with how the Azkals performed in Wednesday’s 1-1 draw against Thailand in Bacolod City when Jovin Bedic rescued the host from defeat with an equalizing goal in the 81st minute.
Midfielder Stephan Schrock was hailed for his effective play setting up scoring chances while central defender Alvaro Silva provided toughness in the backline that frustrated the Thai attack.
They will play key roles in the Indonesian capital alongside team captain Phil Younghusband, goalkeeper Michael Falkesgaard and midfielders Patrick Reichelt and Patrick Strauss.
