The Philippine Under-23 Men’s National team won against host country Tajikistan to keep their playoff hopes alive in the AFC U-23 Asian Cup, early morning of September 7.
An Ice Cold 1st Half
Just like their 1st game in the tournament against Syria, both teams struggled in the 1st half of action.
Photo Credits: AFC U-23 Asian Cup
Tajikistan controlled much of the possession before halftime and tested the Philippine defense on multiple occasions. Goalkeeper Nicholas Guimares stood firm, however, and the backline held steady to keep the match scoreless after 45 minutes.
Breakthrough for the Philippines All Thanks to Noah Leddel
Photo Credits: AFC U-23 Asian Cup
With both sides struggling to find the finishing touch, the breakthrough finally arrived in the 70th minute. Off a well-placed corner kick from team captain Sandro Reyes, midfielder Noah Leddel rose above the defense and fired the decisive strike that put the Philippines ahead.
Photo Credits: AFC U-23 Asian Cup
Tajikistan pushed for an equalizer, but the Filipinos refused to crack under pressure, sealing the clean sheet and their maiden victory of the qualifiers.
FINAL SCORE: PHILIPPINES 1 – 0 TAJIKISTAN
Up Next: A Struggling Nepal to Book a Qualification Slot
The result lifted the Philippines to three points, drawing them level with Tajikistan in the Group standings.
Screenshot from AFC U23 Asian Cup Fixtures and Standings
The squad now faces Nepal in their next assignment, a must-win clash that could move them closer to qualification for the main tournament.
The Philippines is currently #2 in the Group K team standings as Syria won against Nepal earlier with the score of 4-2.
Tajikistan, on the other hand, will try to bounce back against Syria while the match of Philippines versus Nepal is set to happen on September 9, Tuesday at 9:00 PM.
