A HEARTBREAKER in Manila.
The Philippines conceded a stoppage-time goal to Vietnam and settled for a 1-1 stalemate in another deflating result in its 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup campaign at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
Ngoc Tan Doan scored on a short header in injury time after the Philippines looked headed to celebrate its first victory over regional powerhouse Vietnam in 12 years before 3,346 ecstatic home fans.
"I'm sad for the players," said Philippines coach Albert Capellas.
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Instead, the Philippines settled for its third draw of the tournament heading into its final group stage match away to Indonesia on Saturday.
Jarvey Gayoso scored on a left-footed boot in the 68th minute to give the Philippines a 1-0 lead before the late Vietnam goal.
The Philippines last beat Vietnam, 1-0, in the 2012 Suzuki Cup in Bangkok.
A win on Wednesday night would have evoked memories of the 'Miracle in Hanoi' on December 5, 2010 when the Philippines beat Vietnam, 2-0, sparking a renaissance of the sport in the nation.
Despite the draw that put it in fourth place in Group B, the Philippines still has a shot at a semifinal berth with a victory over Indonesia in an away match.
But the semifinal scenario was the last thing in the minds of the team after the match.
The draw spoiled the effort of Philippines goalkeeper Patrick Deyto, who made a couple of huge stops until that late goal in the 97th minute.
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