THE Philippines will not play in the semifinals of the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup after closing the group stage with a 1-0 loss to Malaysia on Saturday night at the Kuala Lumpur Stadium.
A header by Gunalan Pavithran off a cross from Ahmad Kamal in the 16th minute was the lone goal of the match to oust the Philippines from semifinal contention after its third loss in four outings.
The Nationals finished in fourth place with three points with their 4-1 win over Laos last August 1 as their only victory of the tournament.
They also lost to Myanmar, 4-1, last July 28, and Thailand, 1-0, last Tuesday, all of which were held at home at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium.
The Philippines failed to repeat its 2024 feat where it reached the semifinals, and even won over Thailand, 2-1, in the first leg before bowing out.
The Pinoy booters not only needed a win but also score at least six goals against Malaysia, and Thailand winning over Myanmar in the remaining group match.
Thailand beat Myanmar 2-0 to sweep Group B with Malaysia also reaching the semifinals with the win over the Philippines.
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