The Philippine under-23 men’s national football team took a significant step towards qualifying for the AFC U23 Asian Cup, securing a crucial 1-0 victory against a formidable Tajikistan squad on Sunday in Dushanbe.
The winning goal came in the 70th minute, with captain Sandro Reyes connecting his right corner kick to Noah Leddel for the winning goal in the 70th minute.
While the offense provided the winning moment, the defense was equally critical to the team’s success. Goalkeeper Nic Guimaraes was a standout, making two crucial saves on shots from Tajikistan’s Azizbek Khaitov and Abubakr Sulaymonov late in the game. Guimaraes also effectively cleared three dangerous crosses between the 75th and 80th minutes.
Leddel, in addition to his game-winning goal, was a defensive pillar. He made several key blocks and clearances, including an early one in the eighth minute against a dangerous attempt from Muhammadali Azizboev.
“I think overall it was a tough game,” Leddel said. “Both sides were very intense but it was going to come down to a set piece goal ultimately and I think the boys dug in, showed really good heart to keep a clean sheet against a really good team and yeah just happy to come away with the win and get the three points.”
With the win, the Philippines and Tajikistan are now tied for second place in their group with three points each. The Philippines still has chance to qualify for the main tournament, facing winless Nepal in their final match on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Tajikistan will take on undefeated Syria.
This victory marks only the second win for the Philippines in the twelve-year history of the U23 Asian Cup qualification tournament. Their last win was a similar 1-0 result against Bangladesh in 2023.
