Azkals fall to Syria at start of FIFA World Cup bid

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--The Philippine Azkals suffered their toughest loss in recent memory, falling to Syria, 2-5, at the start of their campaign in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers at the Panaad Stadium in Bacolod on Thursday night.

Despite a solid start, the Azkals gave up four Syrian goals in succession that sealed their fate.

Javi Patino put the sold-out crowd into frenzy after scoring in the seventh minute.

However, Omar Al-Soma answered with a 15th minute goal that tied the game up.

Khaled Ambayer then put Syria ahead with his 31st minute goal.

Firas Al-Khatib then turned the match into a blowout, scoring Syria's third goal in the 48th minute, or three minutes into the second half.

Al-Soma then completed a brace after he headed in a 55th minute goal to make it 4-1.

Daisuke Sato tried to push a late rally for the Azkals after scoring in the 84th minute, but Mahmoud Al Mawas finally shut the door after drilling the insurance goal in the 86th minute.

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