Bocaue, Bulacan (CNN Philippines) — The Philippine Azkals fell short in their bid for a fourth straight semifinal appearance in the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup, after coming up short against Thailand, 1-0, on Friday at the Philippine Sports Stadium in Bocaue, Bulacan.
There were many scenarios which would have seen the Philippines go through to the next round, but none of them materialized by the final whistle.
A scoreless first half saw the Azkals introduce more attacking verve into the lineup with James Younghusband and Misagh Bahadoran entering the fray after the break.
The second half was marked by many missed chances for both sides, as the Philippines searched for the goal that would have seen them through the next round.
But in the end it was Thailand that found the opener, after Sarawut Masuk took advantage of a breakaway in the 81st minute to knock the ball past a stretched Roland Muller. 1-0.
The Philippines fought for the equalizer in the dying minutes of the game, but were not able to get on the scoreboard.
With Indonesia beating Singapore, 2-1, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, it will be the Garudas who advance into the next round of the competition.
