MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Azkals settled for a goalless draw against Afghanistan in their opening match in the AFC Challenge Cup in Maldives early Wednesday morning. The Azkals started slow in the first half and struggled to keep up with the high-pressing Afghans, who controlled possession. But the Filipinos picked up steam midway in the half, and wound up with 12 attempts on goal, seven of them on target. The Azkals were without striker Phil Younghusband and skipper Rob Gier, who were suspended for the opening match after incurring yellow cards during the qualifiers. The Azkals will next face Laos on Thursday. -- Mornings @ ANC, May 21, 2014.