MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals were denied a home turf victory in the first leg of their AFF Suzuki Cup semifinal tie against the Singapore Lions at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Saturday night.
Singapore was in control in the first half, with attacks from the Lions forcing Azkals goalkeeper Eduard Sacapaño to make several reflex saves.
The Azkals recovered their composure in the second half after the entry of Marwin Angeles in midfield.
Phil Younghusband and Patrick Reichelt combined forces to attack the left flank but failed to find a final ball that could have led to a goal.
Paul Mulders had a golden opportunity to push the Azkals ahead but his freekick went just inches from the goal.
Chieffy Caligdong entered the match in the 77th minute to replace Reichelt and injected pace into the Philippines.
The veteran winger went close to punching a hole through Singapore's defense but his first touch failed him inside the box in one of the Philippines' attacking forays.
The Philippines will next face Singapore for the 2nd leg on December 12.
Because of the away goals rule, the Azkals can advance to the finals of the AFF Suzuki Cup if they hold the Lions to a scoring draw -- such as a 1-1 or 2-2 scoreline -- in the second leg.
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