Reichelt scores as Azkals settles for draw vs. Chinese Taipei

by Drew Malihan

KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan - A late equalizer spoiled the Philippine National Football Team's chances of a win as they end the game level with Chinese Taipei, 1-1 in their friendly match Friday inside the Kaohsiung National Stadium.

This is the second time the national team has faced Chinese Taipei this year, the first one a painful 2-3 defeat inside the Rizal Memorial Stadium last June 19, and the first match for the returning Michael Weiß in charge.

Kuala Lumpur City forward Patrick Reichelt scored the go-ahead goal for the Azkals in the first half off from a pass from Manny Ott in the 18th minute that went past Pan Wen-chieh's guard.

With the continuous rain in Kaohsiung falling, both teams struggled their way throughout the rest of the game, but the Blue Wings' familiarity in the home pitch spelled the difference.

A pass from midfielder Tu Shao-chieh quashes the Azkals' hopes for a win as he sends it to defender Pai Shao-yu in the 94th minute and sends Neil Etheridge to the ground to give the home team a late equalizer.

The Azkals will see Afghanistan back home in Manila on September 12 inside the Rizal Memorial Stadium, while Chinese Taipei will set a date with Singapore away at Bishan Stadium.

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