Philippines with consecutive draws in AMEC play

c/o Philippine Football Federation

Sandro Reyes scored a late goal to ensure the Philippine Men’s National Football Team shared the spoils on Sunday night at the Laos National Stadium. Despite dominating the majority of the contest, the Filipinos settled for their second straight draw in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup™ 2024.

“We didn’t attack well. We were very predictable with so many players behind the ball,” said Head Coach Albert Capellas after the match. “We weren’t brave enough to move the ball quicker and to play in between the lines, and for that I’m disappointed because, I know my team can play better.”

From the first whistle the Philippines showcased their ability to keep the ball and dictate possession, starving the hosts of any opportunities to threaten. Kike Linares and Michael Kempter came close from set pieces in the opening 20 minutes, but it was Laos to score first from a corner kick. 10 minutes from the break, against the run of play, Michael Baldisimo suffered the misfortune of turning the ball into his own net.

The Philippines emerged from half-time eager to restore parity. Laos remained stubborn, though, minimizing the visitors’ opportunities inside their box. With 15 minutes to go, their resistance was finally broken. Paul Tabinas found Sandro Reyes from a quick transition, and the young midfielder slotted the ball into the net to make it 1-1.

The Philippines came close to scoring a late winner. Alex Monis thought he’d found the go ahead just a few minutes after, but his clever finish was waved away for offside. Javier Mariona came close to being the hero as well right at the finish, but his low curling effort was tipped away by the goalkeeper.

“Today was a step backwards, but we need to move forward,” said Capellas.

The Philippines are back in action on December 18, 9PM, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, where they take on powerhouse Vietnam in their third match of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024.