The Philippine men’s football team stunned Thailand with a thrilling 2-1 victory in the first leg of their Asean Mitsubishi Electric Cup semifinal clash on Friday at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
According to an Inquirer.net report, Enrique Linares delivered the game-winning header in the final seconds of stoppage time, connecting with a pass from Paul Tabinas off a Zico Bailey free kick. The electrifying goal sent the 7,100-strong crowd into a frenzy and marked the Philippines’ first win against Thailand in over five decades, the last being in the 1972 Jakarta Cup.
Sandro Reyes gave the Philippines an early lead with a left-footed strike in the 21st minute, but Thailand equalized through Suphanan Bureerat’s counterattack. The Philippine defense, anchored by goalkeeper Quincy Kammeraad and substitute Scott Woods, held firm to deny Thailand further opportunities, setting the stage for Linares’ dramatic finish.
Coach Albert Capellas’ squad is now in a favorable position to reach the tournament finals for the first time in history. The Philippines needs at least a draw in the return leg on Monday at Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium to secure a spot in the championship. However, a loss by two goals would dash their hopes.
With away goals no longer a factor, extra time and possibly penalties will come into play if the aggregate score ends in a tie after the second leg.
The Philippines’ victory also ends a winless streak against Thailand in the Asean tournament, dating back to its inception in 1996. Previous best results included a scoreless draw in the 2014 semifinals and a 1-1 tie during the 2018 group stage.
