The Philippines Men’s National Football Team was eliminated from contention for the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup final, succumbing to Thailand in extra time of the second-leg of their semifinal match on Monday night in Bangkok. Despite the Filipino side’s valiant effort, the Philippines’ 2-1 victory in the first leg was not enough to overcome Thailand’s 4-3 aggregate lead.
Thailand surged ahead early in the match, with goals from Peeradol Chamratsamee at the 37th minute and Patrik Gustavsson in minute 54. These two goals put Thailand firmly in control, with an aggregate score of 3-2.
But the Philippines fought back with determination, having won the first leg at home, 2-1, a historic victory over Thailand, their first in 52 years.
With less than 10 minutes remaining in regular time, over 35,000 ecstatic Thai fans seemed certain of their team’s advancement to the final.
But in a dramatic turn, the Philippines’ Bjorn Martin Kristensen made an incisive shot, threading past a tight Thai defense to score, narrowing the count to 2-1 and leveling the aggregate score at 3-3.
The Philippines had several other chances in regular time to take the aggregate lead and secure their first-ever finals berth at the AMEC, but three successive missed attempts at right in front of the goat sent them to play an extra 30 minutes.
As extra time ensued, Thailand regained their advantage. A contested header by Suphanat Mueanta in the 116th minute found the back of the net, giving Thailand a 3-1 lead on the night and securing a 4-3 aggregate victory.
Thailand will face Vietnam in the final after the latter triumphed over Singapore with a dominant 5-1 aggregate score.
Despite the heartbreaking defeat, the Philippines can hold their heads high after an inspiring run in the tournament, showcasing both resilience and skill on the international stage.
