By MARK REY MONTEJO
The Philippine men’s football team bucked a slow start and turned back Timor-Leste, 3-1, to secure the lead in Group A of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers third round at the New Clark City Stadium in Capas, Tarlac Tuesday, Oct. 14.
After João Rangel (45’ +1) put Timor-Leste ahead before halftime, the Nationals regrouped and came out smoking with three goals to torch the Timorese and secure their third win while staying unbeaten with one draw.
Delivering for PH team were Jefferson Tabinas (46’), Bjørn Kristensen (70′), and Javier Gayoso (90 ‘+1).
As they reaffirmed their mastery over the Timorese, the Nationals took Group A lead in team standings despite tying with Tajikistan with 10 points, while Timor-Leste dropped to 1-0-3 win-draw-loss card.
The Philippines grabbed the No. 1 spot as it has a +8 goal difference compared to Tajikistan’s +6.
It also stretched their victories to two after Kristensen’s four-goal performance in Philippines’ 4-1 triumph over the very same team last Oct. 9.
Up next for the world No. 143 Philippines is No. 171 Maldives, which is hosting their Nov. 18 face-off at its National Football Stadium.
Then the Filipino booters will have long respite in the qualifying tournament with their next assignment set March 21 next year against Tajikistan.
