The Philippine Azkals. (Photo : World Cup Qualifier)
Seats in the next round may have already been secured, but the competition never stops in the AFC World Cup qualifier. The Philippines are no longer in contention for a trip in Russia in 2018, but they can still pad up their chance of moving to the third round of Asian Cup qualifier with a victory against Uzbekistan.
Event Details:
Tournament: AFC World Cup qualifier
TV Schedule/Date: Philippines vs. Uzbekistan (9:00 p.m Manila Time/ 9:00 a.m US ET) on ABS CBN Sports and Action
Live Stream: Live Soccer TV / ABS-CBN Sports and Action Live Stream
Philippines vs. Tajikistan - Stats, Lineup and Play-by-Play
The Philippines opened their World Cup qualifier campaign with two shocking wins against Bahrain and Yemen. Unfortunately, their 5-1 loss to Uzbekistan in the first round of double round-robin format was a reminder of the disparity in talent and experience between the Uzbeks and the Filipinos. Since that loss, the Azkals never tasted a victory again.
On Thursday, the Philippines will have an opportunity to avenge their loss against Uzbekistan. While making into the third round of the qualifier will no longer be on the line for the Filipinos, a victory against a much talented team on their home turf would be a morale booster for the up-surging football nation.
Prediction: the Philippines have really improved immensely since their last meeting last year. Unfortunately, they are facing an Uzbekistan team currently in a neck-and-neck battle with North Korea for an outright seat in the next round. For that reason, expect the home team to go all out and pile up more goals as possible against the Filipinos: Uzbekistan 4-1.
Starting Lineup: lineups for both squads will be posted 30 minutes before the match at 2018 AFC World Cup qualifier game center: Philippines vs. Uzbekistan
