by Jojo Malig, abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Azkals' World Cup qualifying campaign ended after losing to a 10-man Kuwaiti squad, 1-2 (1-5 on aggregate), in the second leg of their tie at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on Thursday night.
The Kuwaitis, who were enjoying a 3-goal lead from the first leg, went on the attack right at the opening whistle as they funneled passes to the left wing.
The Azkals, after being pinned back for several minutes, launched counterattacks with Phil Younghusband at the receiving end of long balls.
Kuwait had 2 golden opportunities to increase their aggregate lead over the Philippines.
Two Kuwati strikes hit the upright, while another forced a flying save from Neil Etheridge.
The second-leg deadlock was broken by a stunning long-range screamer from Azkals midfielder Stephan Schrock.
The Filipino German, who missed the first leg because of suspension, connected on a thunderbolt from 30 yards that found its way past the outstreched arms of the Kuwaiti goalkeeper.
Kuwait were reduced to 10 men after Fahad Al Ebrahim was given his second yellow card for a bookable offense.
However, they quickly recovered through a long-range goal by Yousef Nasser in the 61st minute.
A breakaway run by Waleed Ali in the 83rd minute resulted in an own goal by Rob Gier.
It silenced the Azkals, who failed to capitalize on having an extra man.
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