Kevin Estrada
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MANILA-- Thomas Dooley was extremely proud of his Azkals after creating the biggest comeback in recent memory, in the post match press conference at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium's media room.
Talking to the press after a thrilling 3-2 win over North Korea, the former United States defender also admitted the the two goals scored by the visiting East Asians could have defended better by the team, but stressed pride on the belief that they can win this match, as inscribed in the shirt he wore.
Dooley said that the two goals in the final minute was a much needed boost for the players, as they are are all out to give departing skipper Juani Guirado a fitting send off.
"I don't know, maybe tomorrow I think about it." the former World Cup veteran answered when asked about the overall complexion of the match, especially about the team's mental fortitude that made them come back from a goal down to snatch that win.
He also spoke about the impact of James Younghusband when he came on in the last ten minutes, especially when he had a hand in the equalizer of Manny Ott, as well as describing Miguel Tanton's start on his debut "excellent".
"I'm really happy for the player's effort [for the entire cycle]," the American summarizes the historic win against the Hermit Kingdom, noting that they were placed in one of the toughest groups in which they had the worst schedules in Group H, especially detailing the long travel to Taskhent and Pyongyang just to play the away matches.
"We can believe that one day we will be there. If that happens, it starts now.", concluded the manager whose contract with the Azkals ends tonight.
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