THE Philippines hopes to bounce back from a painful loss to China as it takes on Guam tonight, June 11, 2021, in the second leg of Group A in the joint FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and AFC Asian Cup China 2023 qualifiers at the Sharjah Stadium in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

The Azkals are out of contention for a spot in the next round of the FIFA World Cup qualifier after losing 2-0 to China on June 8, 2021.

The Philippines, however, is still in the running for an outright spot in the Group Stage of AFC Asian Cup China 2023.

The Philippines needs to maintain its third place spot to directly advance to the Group Stage.

The Azkals are currently in third place behind Syria and China with seven points. Maldives is closely behind with six points. Guam is last with no points.

The Philippines, however, must ensure a win over Guam to solidify its place at third coming into its final Group A match on June 15, 2021.

Maldives is playing against China on June 12, 2021. A win by Maldives over China could put a lot of pressure on the Azkals.

The Philippines handily beat Guam, 4-1, in the first leg, while narrowly escaping Maldives, 2-1.

The match between Philippines and Guam will be at 10 p.m.