The Philippine Under-23 Men’s National Team began its 2024 AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualification campaign on a disappointing note, losing 5-0 to host nation Thailand on Wednesday at Chonburi Stadium.
This result meant that the Filipinos found themselves at the bottom of Group H with a goal difference of minus-5.
Coach Marlon Maro’s men found themselves three goals down before halftime.
Purachet Thodsanid gave the home side the lead just five minutes into the contest, while John Lucero scored an own goal in the 21st minute.
Teerasak Poeiphimai then scored the War Elephants’ third goal in the 29th minute.
In the second half, Anan Yodsangwal added to the Thais’ tally in the 71st minute, and then Yotsakon Burapha completed the rout in the 89th minute.
In the earlier match of the day, Malaysia defeated Bangladesh 2-0 thanks to goals from Yotsakon Burapha and Fergus Tierney in the 81st and 90+4 minutes, respectively.
The Philippines will return to action against Malaysia this Saturday at 5:30 PM Manila time, while Bangladesh will take on Thailand at 9:30 PM. Both games will be held at the same venue.
