The Philippine Azkals surrendered to China, 2-0, in the resumption of the joint-qualification for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2023 Asian Cup on Monday, June 7 (Tuesday, June 8, Manila time), at the Sharjah Stadium in the United Arab Emirates.

Chinese star Wu Lei broke the Philippines’ hearts once again as he opened the floodgates with a 56th-minute goal from the spot.

Wu Xinghan doubled the lead in the 65th minute to ensure the win for China as the Philippines continued to struggle on offense.

China continues to stay on the No. 2 spot in Group A with 13 points of a 4-1-1 (win-draw-loss) record, while the Philippines holds on to third place with 7 points with a 2-1-3 card.

This boosts China’s chances of advancing to the World Cup qualifiers third round with Syria, which leads the group with 21 points off a pristine record after 7 matches.

Only the top two spots of each group will go further, while the third spot will be assured a berth in the 2023 Asian Cup.

The Philippines looks to lock in on the spot for an Asian Cup return as the Azkals will face Guam on Friday, June 11, 10 pm, Manila time.

The Azkals drubbed Guam, 4-1, to open their campaign in the second round of the World Cup qualifiers in September 2019. – Rappler.com