10-man Azkals, Laos battle to draw after late drama to open AFF U23 campaign

Harry Nunez tries to get past Damoth Thongkhamsavath. AFF

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANDALUYONG--Just when the U23 Azkals thought they have won it despite losing Jaime Rosquillo, Laos found the heart-breaker right at the final minute of play.

Souphan Khambai On spoiled the U23 Azkals' late party as his goal with only 30 seconds left from full-time forced a 2-2 draw to kick off their stints in the AFF U23 Championship on Friday night at the Rayong Provincial Stadium in Thailand.

Khambai On sneaked a goal from a tough angle at the right side of the box that Ico Mangaoang did not see coming that forced the stalemate for Laos, who never gave up despite conceding Dennis Chung's go-ahead goal in the second minute of the five-minute stoppage time.

Selwyn Mamon struck first for the U23 Azkals in the 23rd minute only for Khamsa Nga Phimmasone to equalize in the 39th minute, right after Mangaoang tipped away a free kick.

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