In a landmark moment for Philippine football, the men’s national team secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Thailand in the first leg of the 2024 ASEAN Championship semifinal at Rizal Memorial Stadium, Manila, on Friday night. This victory marks the Philippines’ first-ever triumph over Thailand in 52 years, reigniting hopes for a maiden championship final appearance.
The dramatic win was sealed in the 95th minute when Kike Linares headed in a stoppage-time goal, sending the home crowd of over 7,000 fans into jubilation. Off a precise free kick by Zico Bailey, Paul Tabinas redirected the ball to Linares, who calmly guided it past Thai goalkeeper Patiwat Khammai.
The gate attendance at the Rizal Memorial Stadium for this match: 7,116. 75th minute of the game, still Philippines 1️⃣ – Thailand 1️⃣. #MitsubishiElectricCup #MitsubishiElectricCup2024
— Robert 'Bob' Reyes (@bobreyes) December 27, 2024
Earlier in the match, the rising star of Filipino football Sandro Reyes gave the Philippines an early lead with a stunning left-footed strike from outside the box in the 21st minute. However, Thailand’s Suphanan Bureerat equalized just before halftime, capitalizing on a swift counterattack.
The game was a test of resilience for the Philippines, who held firm despite Thailand dominating possession and creating more chances. Quincy Kammeraad, stepping in as goalkeeper, delivered a solid performance, including a crucial save in the second half to deny a volley from Akarapong Pumwiset.
Thailand, the reigning champions, came close to taking the lead several times, with Suphanat Mueanta striking the crossbar early in the second half. The Philippines also faced challenges when their appeals for a penalty were dismissed after Bjorn Kristensen went down inside the box.
The historic victory not only ended a decades-long drought against Thailand but also gave the Philippines a vital advantage heading into the second leg of the semifinal. A draw or a win in Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium on Monday, 30 December 2024 will be enough to secure their spot in the championship final.
The winner of this semifinal will face either Vietnam or Singapore in the final. Vietnam currently leads their tie with a 2-0 win in the first leg. With this momentous triumph, the Philippines has proven that a finals berth is not just a dream but an achievable reality.