Sri Lanka holds Philippine Azkals to 1-1 draw
The Sri Lankan Brave Reds held the Philippine Azkals to a 1-1 draw as they frustrated the Nationals’ attempt to score a historic first win in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The Nationals had difficulties controlling the tempo in the first half against the Sri Lankans' tough defense.
The Sri Lankans scored the first goal of the game when Chathura Gunaratne’s free kick went through in the 40th minute.
Fortunately, Filipino-American Nate Burkey scored a header off a Chieffy Caligdong free kick on the 49th minute to equalize for the Azkals.
It was a highly physical game that was marred by diving on the part of the Sri Lankans.
The uneven grass of the Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo also affected...