MANILA, Philippines – His Excellency President Benigno Simeon 'Noynoy' Aquino III congratulated the Philippine national football team, dubbed as the ‘Azkals’ after it defeated its opposing team from Mongolia in their pre-qualifier bid at the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup, Panaad Stadium, Bacolod City with a 2-0 home win on Wednesday, February 9.
Mongolia lost due to being a man down with just 25 minutes when Pagamsuren Altantulaga picked up his second yellow card, which was booked in the tenth minute. The Philippine team had a numerical advantage-count just two minutes prior to the interval as Emelio Caligdong opened the scoring with a composed end from inside the box.
Aquino says, "… I am grateful to you for bringing pride and honor to Filipinos the world over.
“Your two goals showcased both Filipino creativity and the hard work you put in to master your sport. You brought our people together, and reminded us once again that, united, we can reclaim our nation’s glory. We look forward to cheering you on toward more triumphs.”
Second leg is slated on Tuesday, March 15.
