Games today
(Rizal Memorial Stadium)
8 p.m. – Philippines vs Yemen

When the Philippine Azkals take on Yemen for their home game in the 2018 World Cup Qualifiers, they’re not only fighting for redemption following their 2-0 loss against Bahrain, they’re also fighting for dear life.

That’s why coach Thomas Dooley isn’t leaving any stones unturned even if they’re facing a squad that is already long out of contention and pressed with an internal conflict.

With just seven points with three fixtures to go, the Azkals need to win their remaining games while also hoping for favourable results from the teams above them in order to qualify.

North Korea still tops Group H with 13 points while Uzbekistan is at second with nine points. The Azkals will still face Uzbekistan in Tashkent and North Korea here at home.

“The thing right now is this is an absolutely must win game,” said Dooley. “That should not hinder us from playing our game, not make it difficult for us. It should push every single one to know how important this game is.”

Dooley will have to make major adjustments particularly up front as Phil Younghusband will be banned for this game after incurring two yellow cards in the qualifications.

Neil Etheridge is expected to be dropped for the first time in the qualifiers with the keeper still struggling with a leg injury.

Roland Muller is expected to start for today’s match.

“They (Yemen) want to win the game, they want to beat us, if we don’t show 100 percent for every single player it will be very difficult,” added Dooley.

The willingness of Yemen has been in full display the past couple of months, as even a war in their country did not stop them from competing in the qualifiers.

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