The Philippine Men’s National Team mounted a second half fightback to win their friendly match against Afghanistan last Tuesday 12 September 2023 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila.
Goals from Sebastian Rasmussen in the 74th minute and Christian Rontini in the 81st minute saw the Men’s Team turn around the match after falling behind in the 64th minute from a strike by Omid Popalzay.
Rasmussen drew level with a mesmerizing run from the half-way line and made his way to the Afghanistan box before sending a low shot past the goalkeeper.
Rontini completed the comeback seven minutes later. Substitute Bienvenido Marañon placed an inch perfect cross to the path of the defender who headed it in, sending the crowd at the stadium in frenzy.
“We are very, very happy, but I feel that it’s the first step only because it’s still not there,” said Philippines head coach Michael Weiss after the match.
A highly emotional Neil Etheridge praised the team for their fighting spirit that earned the win over the Afghans.
“The emotion is always tough. I mean, I’ve been a part of this team 15 years now, someone reminded me earlier,” said Philippines captain. ““I think why I got so emotional after the game because it will be the first time in a long time I’ve seen them fight from an Azkals team.”
