MANILA, Philippines � The Philippine Azkals put up a gallant fight against Malaysia in the latter's turf, holding the Malay Tigers to a scoreless draw in their friendly game at the Shah Alam Stadium in Selangor on Friday.
The Filipinos, especially Filipino-German keeper Roland Muller, defended well to counter the Malaysians� dominant ball possession.
Denis Wolf and Stephan Schrock, who provided several chances for the Filipino side, were also impressive for the Azkals.
Striker Mohd Safee Mohd Sali was the biggest threat from Malaysia, making most of the Malay Tigers' attempts at goal.
Following Denis Wolf's missed attempt off a nifty pass by Juani Guirado, Safee got a chance and nearly slid it in for the Malaysians in the 35th minute.
The Philippine side grew stronger as the minutes went by, even getting a free kick near the end of the half.
However, Schrock�s shot from 40 yards out went wide.
Angel Guirado later had a bold attempt with a bicycle kick but was blocked by a Malaysian defender.
Angel Guirado later had a bold attempt with a bicycle kick but was blocked by a Malaysian defender.
In the second half, the Malaysians played with more aggression as they continued attacking from the flanks.
This placed the Azkals on defensive mode with Muller working double time at his post.
Malaysia�s Safiq Rahim had several chances in the second half. Fortunately for the Azkals, he squandered most of his attempts.
The Philippine side tried pulling off a miracle near the end by sending in Ian Araneta and Misagh Bahadoran but the Tigers held on and prevented possible humiliation at their home turf.
In the end, Malaysia had 4 out of 12 shots on target, while the Azkals only had 2 out of 3.
The Tigers also enjoyed 62% ball possessions compared to the Filipinos' 38%
The game was a rematch between the two sides.
The Azkals and the Tigers fought to a 1-1 draw last March.
The Philippine Azkals will next face the Indonesian football team on June 5 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
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