The Philippine men’s football team achieved a breakthrough victory with a stunning 1-0 win against Indonesia in the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup on Saturday at the Manahan Stadium in Surakarta.
The victory secured the Philippines’ spot in the semifinal round of the regional tournament for the first time in years.
Bjorn Martin Kristensen delivered the match’s lone goal through a penalty kick in the 63rd minute.
Despite Indonesia dominating possession (54%) and recording 19 shots to goal compared to the Philippines’ few attempts, the Pinoys’ defense held strong. The hosts also led in corner kicks (5-1) and free kicks (17-12), but the Philippine goalkeeper tallied six crucial saves, outperforming Indonesia’s four.
The victory catapulted the Philippines to the top 2 of Group B with 6 points on a win and three draws. Vietnam topped the group with 10 points on three wins and a draw.
Indonesia was relegated to third with 4 points on a win, a draw, and two losses. Myanmar and Laos occupied the last two places.
Only the top two teams of each group will advance to the semis.
The last time the Philippines beat Indonesia was when the Azkals scored a 4-0 shutout against the Garudas in 2014. That was when Phil Younghusband, Manny Ott, and Martin Steuble starred for the nationals.
It was the 10th meeting between the Philippines and Indonesia, and this was only the second time the nationals won against the Garudas.
The post PH shocks Indonesia, marches to Mitsubishi Cup semis first appeared on Fastbreak.
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