MANILA – The Philippines U-22 football team suffered a heartbreaking 1-2 defeat in the hands of Myanmar in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
Unlike in their 1-1 draw against Cambodia on Monday evening, there was no endgame equalizer for the U-22 Azkals against Myanmar on Wednesday with the latter tightening its defense to escape with the win.
As in their SEA Games opening match, the U-22 Azkals conceded an early goal to Myanmar. Aung Kaung Mann scored at the 17th minute from an assist from Myat Kaung Khant.
The Azkals was able to force a deadlock just before the halftime break with Justin Baas finishing from a cross from Yrick Gallantes that bounced off Dennis Chung.
The Philippine team had an opportunity to take the lead in the second half but was unable to penetrate from the defense of Myanmar before the latter netted a marginal goal courtesy of Win Naing Tun.
With the defeat, the U-22 Azkals drop to one draw and one loss, while, Myanmar recorded the first win in Group A and improved to one win and one draw in two for four points.
The U-22 Azkals is aiming for its first SEA Games win when it tangles with Malaysia in a crucial matchup tonight at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
Kickoff time will be at 8 p.m./PN
