Aquino congratulates Azkals on win vs Mongolians

President Benigno Simeon Aquino III on Wednesday night congratulated the Philippine national "Azkals" football team for their victory over Mongolia. In a statement, Aquino commended the Philippine team for their two goals that showcased both Filipino creativity and hard work. "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," he said in the statement posted early Thursday on the government portal. The Philippine team blanked the Mongolians in the first leg of their 2012 AFC Challenge Cup prequalifying match in Bacolod City on Wednesday, posting 2-0 win. "I, along with the rest of the Filipino people, congratulate the Philippine Azkals for winning the first leg of their prequalifier match versus Mongolia 2-0 in the 2012 AFC Challenge Cup this Wednesday night. I am grateful to you for bringing pride and honor to Filipinos the world over," Aquino said. Left wing Emil Caligdong of the Philippine Air Force came through with a brilliant play in the first half while striker Phil Younghusband scored another goal during the injury time for a 2-0 victory. The 2-0 victory gives the Azkals some cushion as they travel to Mongolia for the second leg. Previously set for February 16, the upcoming game was reset to March 15 and Mongolia will take its turn in playing host in the "home-and-away" format. – VVP, GMA News