THE Philippines salvaged a 1-1 draw to Myanmar on Thursday at the start of its campaign in the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Bjorn Kristensen rescued the Philippines by scoring on a penalty kick in the 72nd minute after he was brought down by Myanmar goalkeeper Zin Nyi Nyi Aung
Kristensen’s conversion also came several minutes after Laat Wai Phon's goal was ruled an offside after a VAR, a sigh of relief for the Philippines and its fans.
Myanmar was holding a 1-0 lead on a Mg Mg Lwin goal in the 26th off a free kick despite the Philippines controlling most of the possessions of the match.
The Philippines took the third spot in Group B with one point. Myanmar also has a point but is at fourth due to its 1-0 loss to Indonesia in its opener.
The Philippines drew despite controlling the possessions by 61 percent. It also had more shots, 22-7.
Philippines coach Albert Capellas was disappointed that the team was unable to eke a victory despite the chances.
“This kind of games, you have to beat them because you usually have to win this games. We created so many chances. I’m very satisfied with the first half, the way that we played, we stuck to the plan, and we created a lot of chances,” said Capellas.
“Today is the game that we really have to win, but it’s how it is,” said Capellas.
The Philippines will try to pick up the victory as it faces Laos on Sunday.
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