Gerrit Holtmann did not hide his frustration after the Philippine Men’s National Football Team settled for a 2-2 draw against Tajikistan in the third round of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification tournament, held Tuesday at the New Clark City Stadium in Tarlac.
The team, formerly known as the Azkals, conceded two goals due to defensive lapses and was unable to find the winning strike despite registering 17 attempts — significantly more than the visitors’ six.
Adding to Holtmann’s dismay was the officiating of Iranian referee Hasan Akrami, who issued a total of 15 yellow cards in a highly physical and emotional contest witnessed by 10,854 fans.
“I think for the 10,000 (who came), we had to win (since) they came for us today,” Holtmann said. “But I can say also what was the referee was doing today, I never saw it in my life. This was really crazy, but we had to win this game.”
(C) PFF
With the result, both the Philippines and Tajikistan now have four points in Group A. However, the home side clings to the top spot thanks to a superior goal difference — +4 compared to the visitors’ +1.
Only the group winners will qualify directly for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, making every point crucial. As such, the draw felt more like a loss for the Filipinos, who failed to capitalize on home advantage.
“I think in the first minute I had the first chance to make it 1-0,” Holtmann reflected. “We had a lot of good chances today, but in the end it’s just a draw, but it feels like a loss. We have to take aim on Tajikistan in March. Beforehand, we have Timor Leste and Maldives.”
Tuesday’s match marked the eighth encounter between the two nations. The updated head-to-head record now stands at four wins, three draws, and one loss in favor of the Philippines.
For Holtmann, this result only fuels his determination to secure a win in the return leg against Tajikistan, set for 31 March 2026. While his home debut was marred by the draw, he’s eager to return the favor in the latter stages of the qualification campaign.
“I’m happy we have a return game in Tajikistan because… I don’t want to say they’re a rival, but it was hot air today,” he said. “Spicy, a little bit also. This is what I love, what I like, and I’m happy we have the return game.”
#WATCH: Gerrit Holtmann shares his thoughts on finally playing in front of the home crowd! 🇵🇭⚽️
📹 @ickodeg /Tiebreaker Times#LabanPilipinas #AsianCup pic.twitter.com/Gbiiep1oWB
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) June 10, 2025
