Male: Midfielder Iain Ramsay believes Philippines have peaked at the right time as they prepare for the crucial Asian Qualifiers Group A tie against Syria in the Asian Qualifiers on Tuesday.

Philippines defeated Maldives 2-1 on Thursday, with Ramsay breaking the deadlock in the second half, before John-Patrick Strauss sealed the victory for the Azkals.

The win kept Philippines in the hunt for a place the third round of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifying and a confirmed berth in the AFC Asian Cup China 2023 Finals as they are now tied with China PR with seven points.

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Ramsay credited his rejuvenated form to the confidence growing within the team that will play group leaders Syria in Dubai.

”The whole squad has been positive. We have got a good group growing together, and we have some momentum going into the Syria match,” said the Sukhothai FC player to local media.

“I’m growing in confidence and I’m enjoying football and obviously everyone can see that. The most important thing is we got the three points here (against Maldives)."

Philippines began their qualifying campaign with a 5-2 defeat against Syria, but the Azkals recovered nicely to defeat Guam 4-1 on Matchday Two and then held the much-fancied China PR to a goalless draw at home in Panaad.

“Scott (Cooper, coach) has got the team tactically right and we are working hard for each other, we are a tight knit group,” added Ramsay.

Syria, however, will be a tough challenge as they are on a high with the 2-1 win over China extending their winning run to four matches but Ramsay believes Philippines have the quality to stop the West Asians and head into 2020 with their Asian Qualifiers fate in their own hands.