The Philippine Men’s National Team earned a vital point in their AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 Qualifiers campaign after a 2-2 draw against Yemen last Tuesday 5 September 2017 at the Pana-ad Park and Football Stadium in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.
Phil and James Younghusband struck on either side of the half to keep the Philippines on top of Group F with seven points while Yemen remained in second with five points.
Yemen broke the deadlock in the 27th minute. Mudir Al Radaei was there to head home the corner kick.
Phil Younghusband pulled the Philippines back on level terms three minutes later, claiming his 47th international goal in the process. The Azkals skipper rifled his free kick to the top corner past Mohammed Ebrahim for the equalizer.
In the second half, Abdulwasea Al Matari scored to put Yemen ahead once again in the 55th minute.
Despite the deficit, the Philippines rallied and scored a second equalizer in the 71st minute. James Younghusband timed his jump from the set piece to send his header past the goalkeeper.
The Philippines had several more chances to claim the three points, but Yemen held on to preserve the draw.
The two teams will meet again on 10 October 2017 in Doha, Qatar.