The Philippine Men’s National Football Team reignited its 2026 ASEAN Championship – Hyundai Cup campaign with a rousing 4-1 comeback victory over Laos in Vientiane.
But for Philippine Football Federation (PFF) President John Anthony Gutierrez, the triumph was defined not only by the scoreline but by the circumstances under which it was achieved.
Despite those constraints, the PH football chief praised the resilience and commitment of the squad that took the field.
“We are incredibly proud of every player who answered the call to represent our country. We believe in this team, and we support them one hundred percent—win or lose,” said Gutierrez.
“They have our full confidence because we know the commitment, sacrifice, and pride they bring every time they play for country,’’ he added.
The Philippines overturned a 1-0 halftime deficit with four unanswered goals in the second half, showcasing the depth and determination of the players who stepped up in the absence of others tied to club duties.
Goals from John Lucero, Jarvey Gayoso, Daisuke Sato, and a Laos own goal sealed the country’s first win of the tournament.
“Every football nation experiences victories and defeats. What matters is how a team responds, how it continues to improve, and how it grows over time. This victory is an important response, but it is also another step in our journey of building a stronger Philippine national team for the future,” said Gutierrez.
The PFF President also expressed his appreciation to Filipino fans for expressing their support for the team.
“We are deeply grateful to every Filipino who continues to support our national team. To those who celebrated with us, thank you. To those who criticize us, we know those emotions come from your passion and your desire to see Philippine football succeed,’’ said Gutierrez.
“But football is also about respect. The only way to move Philippine football forward is if we all work together with respect, united by the beautiful game we all love,’’ added Gutierrez.
Gutierrez also emphasized the unique difficulties of the Hyundai Cup, which is staged outside the FIFA International Match Calendar.
“The Hyundai Cup is not played during a FIFA international window. Despite the Philippine Football Federation’s best efforts to appeal to international clubs to release our players, not everyone was available for national team duty because of their club commitments,’’ Gutierrez explained.
“That is the reality not only for the Philippines but for many teams in this competition,” he added.
The result lifts the Philippines to three points in Group B, equaling its biggest-ever winning margin over Laos in the ASEAN Championship. The team now heads home for a crucial clash against Thailand on August 4 at New Clark City Stadium in Capas, Tarlac.
