Jarvey Gayoso celebrates after scoring the second-half goal for the Philippines in last Thursday’s 1-0 victory over Nepal. PFF photo
Azkals subdue Nepal
THE Philippines opened its second Hans Michael Weiss era with a 1-0 victory over Nepal in a friendly Thursday night at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Jarvey Gayoso, a substitute just before halftime to replace an injured Patrick Reichelt, was in the right place at the right time to produce the lone goal of the match in front of 3,250 fans at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
It was Gayoso’s second international goal for the Azkals – and the first since the 2018 Bangabandhu Cup – as the Kaya FC-Iloilo standout tapped the ball home off a set-piece in the 49th minute.
The Philippines also drew a huge game from goalkeeper Patrick Deyto, the Stallion Laguna mainstay who delivered several key saves for the clean sheet.
“I’m very happy first of all to come back to the Philippines. Secondly, we won. At the end of the day, it’s a results sport and that’s about it. I think against Chinese Taipei on the 19th, we’ll be better,” said Weiss.
“I want to thank Patrick for his excellent performance,” the German mentor added.
With a one-goal lead, the Azkals aimed to capitalize on their momentum but could not the needed buffer.
Stephan Schrock, who initially announced his retirement from international duty at the end of the Mitsubishi Electric Cup last year, came on in the 71st minute to replace Kenshiro Daniels and strengthen the midfield.
It was Weiss’ first win as Philippines coach since a 3-1 victory over Pakistan on October 15, 2013.
The Azkals have also extended their undefeated streak against the Nepalese to six matches.
