The Philippine Men’s Under-23 National Team claimed a vital 2-2 draw against Timor-Leste to kickstart their AFF U23 Championship 2022 campaign at the Morodok Techo Stadium in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Forward Ivan Ouano loomed large for the Philippines with two goals from either half to force the draw and split the points between the two teams.
“We showed great character to comeback both times to get the draw,” said head coach Stewart Hall. “It’s a new and young squad, but I’m pleased with their performance.”
Timor-Leste took the lead in the fifth minute of the match from Mouzinho Barreto de Lima’s spot kick after the Philippines committed a foul inside the box.
The Philippines went on to draw level on the stroke of half-time. Ouano was found free in the box, and fired a shot towards the bottom corner to settle things at 1-1.
However, Timor-Leste once again took the lead 11 minutes after the restart. Jaimito Soares went past several defenders before sending the ball past Quincy Kammeraad.
Not to be undone, Ouano forced the second deadlock of the match in the 62nd minute. Jacob Maniti’s corner kick was spilled by the goalkeeper, allowing Ouano to convert from close range.
The Philippines will face hosts Cambodia on Thursday, 17 February 2022 at the same venue.