Kuala Lumpur: A look at all the latest news from the numerous friendlies taking place across Asia.
Albirex Niigata 3 Singapore 0
Singapore’s three-match tour of Japan ended with a second defeat, as fast-starting Albirex Niigata cruised to a comfortable win.
Goals to Go Hayama, Ibusuki Hiroshi and Kalil - all within the first 15 minutes – secured the win for the home side, who are currently 15th on the J. League second stage table.
Singapore’s loss came following a 3-2 defeat to Niigata University of Health and Welfare last Wednesday, and a 2-0 win over Japan Soccer College the following day.
The Lions’ Japanese tour is part of their preparations for the 2016 AFF Championship. The tournament’s group stage draw will be conducted in Myanmar on August 2.
Melbourne Victory 1-1 Juventus (4-3 pens)
Australia’s Melbourne Victory surprised a depleted Juventus, defeating the 32-time Italian champions on penalties in their International Champions Cup match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday night.
Juventus, missing a number of their UEFA Euro 2016 stars, took the lead after 58 minutes when a stunning 45-yard strike from defender Carlos Blanco sailed over the head of Melbourne goalkeeper Lawrence Thomas and into the net.
The home team replied seven minutes from full-time with a lovely team goal, finished off by winger Jai Ingham.
Under competition rules the match went to a penalty shootout where Victory shot-stopper Thomas became the hero, making two excellent saves to secure the win.
UFL All-Stars 1-2 Perth Glory
Perth Glory recovered from a slow start to see off a Philippines United Football League All-Stars team 2-1 in their friendly in Rizal.
Perth’s stand-in skipper Andy Keogh wasted an early chance from the penalty spot, and the UFL side took the lead through Kaya FC’s Louis Clark after 13 minutes.
Chris Harold equalised for Perth nine minutes later, before Irishman Keogh put the Australian side in front with a sweetly struck half volley on the stroke of half-time.
Perth’s win follows their 0-0 draw with Filipino league leaders Global FC on Wednesday. Their tour of the Philippines finishes on Tuesday with a match against the Philippine national team.
Source: the-afc.com