KUALA LUMPUR — The Philippine Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT) ended its campaign in the 2026 ASEAN Championship – Hyundai Cup with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Malaysia in the Group B final matchday fixture held Saturday, August 8, at Kuala Lumpur.
“Our men rose to the challenge,” said PFF President John Anthony Gutierrez. “Every country in Group B is strong; the win against Laos is a testament of our quality and while our three losses against regional powers Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia have been disappointing, our men gave their best on the pitch, and we have two more men’s tournaments in 2026 where they can get back on the winning track.”
“PFF is incredibly proud of all the members of our Hyundai Cup team. Sa gitna ng unos at mahahabang byahe, talagang lumaban ang PMNFT para sa bayan,” he added.
Malaysia’s Gunalan Pavithran headed home the decisive goal in the 16th minute off a right-sided cross from Wan Kuzain. The Philippines created opportunities to equalize but were unable to convert.
Key Philippine moments included Jarvey Gayoso’s header that went wide left in the 19th minute from a Kenji Nishioka free kick, Javier Mariona’s strike from the right flank of the box saved by Azri Ghani in the 34th minute, Aysar Hadi’s shot from inside the box saved by veteran goalkeeper Patrick Deyto in the 68th minute, Pocholo Bugas’ aggressive effort in a left-sided one-on-one against Alif Ahmad in the 75th minute, and Jaime Rosquillo’s crucial block of Pavithran’s dangerous attempt inside the six-yard box in the 86th minute.
Twelve-year national team veteran Daisuke Sato returns to the ASEAN Championship for the first time since 2021. He scored a goal against Laos last August 1, 2026.
“We started off really badly and we got better when the tournament went on,” said starting midfielder Sandro Reyes, alluding to the 1-4 opener loss against Myanmar, followed by a 4-1 win against Laos and two straight lone goal losses against Thailand and Malaysia. “It’s definitely a learning experience that we cannot start these tournaments on the wrong foot because very quickly it can turn things very difficult for you.”
“We are a group of guys that gave everything in this tournament and it wasn’t so easy: Players leaving their clubs, players sacrificing time from their family… taking time in the off season, the pre-season to fight for the country so I think everyone gave their best and that’s all we can do at the end of the day. Thank you very much and we hope to do better in the next ones,” he added.
The result left PMNFT with a Group B record of one win and three losses (5 goals for, 7 against, –2 goal difference). Malaysia advanced to the semifinals alongside Thailand.
Looking ahead, PMNFT will field its under-23 squad in its return to the Asian Games for the first time since 1974. Asia’s biggest multi-sport event begins September 14 in Nagoya, Japan.
The team will then assemble a full squad for the Premier Division of the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup, which starts September 24 and falls within a FIFA international window, ensuring the release of the squad’s top players from their clubs.
PFF extends its immense gratitude to all the fans, workforce, and volunteers who not only cheered for flag and country but worked hard to stage two successful home game hosting at the New Clark City Stadium in Capas, Tarlac.
