Bucking a slow start, the Philippine Men’s National Football Team got its ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 campaign back on track with a dominant second-half display, routing 10-man Laos, 4-1, on Saturday at the New Laos National Stadium in Vientiane.
The Philippines fell behind just seven minutes into the match after goalkeeper Quincy Kammeraad failed to properly handle Damoth Thongkhamsavath’s long-range effort, allowing the hosts to take an early lead.
The tide turned in the 14th minute. Laos defender Phetdavanh Somsanid was sent off following a VAR review for a dangerous tackle on Jarvey Gayoso, giving the Filipinos a one-man advantage for the rest of the contest.
The team formerly known as the Azkals capitalized in the second half, erupting for four unanswered goals.
John Lucero equalized in the 47th minute with a right-footed finish, before the visitors took the lead seven minutes later as Cole Mrowka’s attempt was deflected into the net by Laos defender Viengxay Sydavong for an own goal.
(C) PFF
Gayoso all but sealed the victory in the 60th minute, calmly converting a penalty awarded after a VAR review spotted a handball by Sangvilay Phoutthavong inside the box.
Captain Daisuke Sato completed the scoring in the 88th minute, rising to head home the Philippines’ fourth goal and cap a convincing victory.
The win gave Carles Cuadrat’s side its first three points of the tournament, though it remained fourth in Group B behind Myanmar on goal difference. Group leaders Malaysia and Thailand were set to face each other later in Bangkok.
“What I’m happy is we changed the fortune,” said Cuadrat. “Because until now, we were unfortunate in all the things that were happening during the match. So it’s a good reward for the squad. Now we have to focus on the next game that’s only (in) three days.”
(C) PFF
Laos, meanwhile, suffered its third consecutive defeat and was eliminated from contention.
Both teams return to action on Tuesday.
The Philippines will look to build on its breakthrough win when it hosts Thailand at 9:00 PM at the New Clark City Stadium in Tarlac. Meanwhile, Laos closes out its campaign against Myanmar in Yangon at 6:00 PM.
Laos XI: Lokphathip (GK), Somsanid, Phetsivilay, Sangvilay, Siphanom, Siphavanh, Keonuchanh, Thongkhamsavath ©, Wenpaserth, Noophackde, Chernvanglien.
Philippines XI: Kammeraad (GK), Sato ©, Rontini, Ugelvik, Lucero, Muens, Reyes, Mrowka, Mariona, Nishioka, Gayoso.
