The Philippine Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT) wrapped up its 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup campaign with a spirited 2‑1 victory over Thailand on Friday evening at the Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung, Indonesia.
Despite a rain‑delayed start, the Philippines wasted no time asserting themselves. Just three minutes in, Bjorn Kristensen latched onto Randy Schneider’s clever heel pass inside the box and calmly slotted home the opener. Kristensen nearly doubled the lead moments later, while Andre Leipold and Kenji Nishioka also tested Thailand’s defense in the opening spell.
The Filipinos continued to create chances, but missed opportunities meant they carried only a 1‑0 advantage into halftime.
Thailand Levels the Match
Thailand responded strongly after the break. In the 55th minute, Seksan Ratree slipped a pass to Iklas Sanron, who chipped in his first international goal to level the score at 1‑1.
The Philippines quickly sought a reply. Kristensen forced a save from Kampon Pathomakkakul, while Nishioka’s attack was thwarted by Kritsada Kaman. Thailand nearly completed the turnaround when Jude Soonsup‑Bell broke free, but Michael Falkesgaard produced a crucial stop to keep the match level.
Kristensen Seals the Win
Four minutes later, the Philippines regained control. Leipold chased down a loose ball on the right flank, beat his marker, and squared for Kristensen, who finished clinically in the 68th minute.
The brace lifted Kristensen’s international tally to 16 goals in 20 appearances, tying him with Patrick Reichelt and Chieffy Caligdong as the Philippines’ second‑highest all‑time scorer.
Thailand pressed late, but Falkesgaard stood firm, denying Chanathip Songkrasin’s corner and Teerasak Poeiphimai’s close‑range effort before collecting the final attempt in stoppage time.
PMNFT Campaign Ends on High Note
The win gave the Philippines four points from three matches, following a 1-0 loss to Vietnam and a 2-2 draw with Pakistan. However, Vietnam’s 4‑2 victory over Pakistan meant PMNFT finished third in Group B, missing out on the medal rounds.
Thailand topped the group with six points and advanced to the gold‑medal match against Indonesia, while Vietnam moved on to face Malaysia for bronze.
