By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

Following a goalless draw between the Philippines national football team, the Azkals, and Malaysia earlier this week at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila, Azkals coach Thomas Dooley said he remains optimistic as his team prepares to face Nepal next week in the third qualifying round for the 2019 AFC Asian Cup.
His Malaysian counterpart, Ong Kim Swee, according to Malaysian news outlet, The Star, credited the Filipino side.
“It is always tough to play against the Philippines,” he said. “They are an improved side and this game has served its purpose, especially for the home team who will be opening their 2019 Asian Cup qualifying tournament next week.”
The game, itself, remained fairly quiet.
Shortly after the halftime break, Malaysian striker Amri Yahyah went down in the penalty area, but was unsuccessful in drawing a penalty shot from the referee.
It wasn’t until the 71st minute that Azkals midfielder Hikaru Minegishi took a shot, but the attempt was blocked by the Malaysian keeper.
Later, the visitors almost made a last minute winner in the 87th minute, however, midfielder Veenod Subramaniam’s shot went wide./WDJ