In a semifinal clash that will go down in ASEAN Football Championship history, the plucky Philippines national team took regional powerhouses Thailand to the absolute brink, falling just short of a historic upset in a heart-stopping 210-minute epic. Though the Thais ultimately prevailed 4-3 on aggregate, the Azkals’ incredible tournament run heralds the arrival of a new force in Southeast Asian football.
A Date With Destiny Postponed
Monday’s second leg had the makings of a classic from the start. Buoyed by their shock 2-1 win in the first leg, Philippines came out firing on all cylinders, nearly catching Thailand cold in just the 16th minute. A defense-splitting pass sent Jarvey Gayoso through on goal, but Thai goalkeeper Patiwat Khammai got just enough on his shot to allow the ball to be cleared off the line.
It was a warning shot across the bow for the War Elephants, and they responded like champions. Goals from Peeradon Chamratsamee and Patrik Gustavsson either side of halftime flipped the script, giving Thailand a 3-2 aggregate lead. But these Azkals would not go quietly into the night.
Kristensen Magic Sparks Comeback
With their backs against the wall, Bjørn Kristensen produced a moment of individual brilliance to draw Philippines level on aggregate. Receiving the ball with his back to goal, the 22-year-old showed poise beyond his years, pirouetting past his marker and rifling a low shot into the bottom corner. Game on.
Agony At The Death
Philippines had the bit between their teeth and came within inches of completing the upset in stoppage time. A goalmouth scramble saw both Amani Aguinaldo and Gayoso denied by desperate Thai defending. It was a heart-in-mouth moment that would come back to haunt the Azkals.
As legs tired in extra time, Thailand coach Masatada Ishii turned to his ace in the hole: Suphanat Mueanta. The tournament MVP favorite duly delivered, leaping above his marker to nod home the winning goal with just four minutes remaining. Philippines had given absolutely everything, but it wasn’t quite enough.
We left everything on the pitch today. I couldn’t be prouder of my teammates. This is a tough loss to take, but we’ll be back stronger.
Bjørn Kristensen, Philippines midfielder
The Future Is Bright
Though the Azkals fell at the final hurdle, their ASEAN Cup campaign will live long in the memory. From their group stage heroics to pushing Thailand to the limit, they’ve proven they belong on the big stage. With young stars like Kristensen, Gayoso and goalkeeper Quincy Kammeraad leading the way, this feels like just the beginning for Philippines football.
Thailand, to their immense credit, had all the answers in the end. Their quality and big game experience shone through, booking a tenth ASEAN Cup final appearance. Another titanic tussle with Vietnam awaits, after the Golden Star Warriors saw off a spirited Malaysia in the other semifinal.
But while the Thais continue their regional dominance for now, the chasing pack is closing in. The Philippines’ brave stand is proof of the incredible growth of ASEAN football. It may not have been their day this time, but if they continue on this trajectory, that date with destiny feels inevitable. Southeast Asian football’s Cinderella story is just getting started.
