Bocaue, Bulacan (CNN Philippines) — The Philippine Azkals and Indonesia fought their way to a 2-2 draw in the group stage of the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup on Tuesday at the Philippine Sports Stadium.
The first half started at a more frantic pace than the meeting between the Azkals and Singapore in match day one.
Unfortunately for the host side, it was the Indonesians who scored first after Fachruddin Wahyudi Aryanto headed in the opener from a free kick at the 7th minute of the contest.
The Philippines had numerous chances to equalize, but was unable to break down the Indonesia defense for an extended period.
But the hosts struck back in the 31st minute after Misagh Bahadoran poked the ball past the Indonesia keeper from a Stephan Schrock free kick into the box.
Both sides entered the second half level at 1-1.
Indonesia grabbed the lead once again after Boas pounced on a rebound in the Philippine box to give them the 2-1 advantage at the 69th minute.
With time running out, the Azkals struck back after captain Phil Younghusband curled in a free kick to give the team the equalizer, 2-2 at the 81st minute.
There was no late drama to be had as both teams failed to net the game winner.
Thailand books semis berth
In the first match, Singapore came close to securing a precious point against tournament favorites Thailand was downed by a late goal, 1-0.
Singapore contained the Thais for majority of the match and looked dangerous on the break, but were unable to convert on their chances on goal.
The Lions inability to take their chances proved costly in the end.
It took the War Elephants 89 minutes to get the game winner through a Sarawut Masuk header.
The victory means that Thailand progresses into the semifinal stage.
Knockout scenarios
For the Philippine team to advance outright, they need to defeat Thailand in the last day of the group stage.
A draw against the Thais means that if Singapore beats Indonesia, they progress to the next round.
Should both matches end in a draw, officials will need to analyze the goal difference to separate the teams.
A loss for the Philippines against the War Elephants will eliminate them from the competition.
The Philippines will play Thailand at the Philippine Sports Stadium, while Indonesia faces off against Singapore at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.
Both games will be played at the same time on Friday.
