Coming off from a 2-5 loss to Syria last Thursday, the Philippine Men’s National Team bounced back with a comprehensive 4-1 win over Guam last Tuesday, 10 September 2019 at Guam FA Field in Dededo, Guam.
It was the Philippines’ first win in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 / AFC Asian Cup 2023 China Preliminary Joint Qualification Round 2. Moreover, the win also ended the string of losses dating back from the AFF Suzuki Cup 2018 semifinal last year.
Starting in his second straight match, Angel Guirado opened the scoring for the Philippines in the seventh minute. Captain Stephan Schrock found the forward free in the box for the header.
The Philippines made it 2-0 five minutes later. Guirado delivered an inch-perfect pass for Patrick Reichelt, who rounded the goalkeeper before slotting it in. The Philippines ended the first half with a two-goal cushion.
Guam, through Mariano Lopez, reduced the deficit in the 67th minute from the penalty spot after a foul called on Carlos de Murga in the box.
However, any signs of a Guam comeback went for naught as Schrock and Patrick Strauss added two more goals to complete the rout.
Schrock netted in the 71st minute with a shot from outside the box, while Strauss was free on goal for his first international goal in the 84th minute.
Newly called up players in midfielder Yrik Gallantes and defender Justin Baas also made their competitive debuts for the Philippines.
The Philippines are currently in third place in Group A with one win and one loss. The Azkals next face China PR on 15 October 2019 at Pana-ad Park and Football Stadium in Bacolod, Negros Occidental.
