Philippines rallies past 10-man Laos for first ASEAN Cup win

The Philippine Men's National Football Team bounced back from an early setback and overwhelmed 10-man Laos, 4-1, to claim its first victory in the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 on Saturday at the New Laos National Stadium in Vientiane.

After conceding in the opening 10 minutes, the Filipinos capitalized on Laos' numerical disadvantage following a first-half red card and scored four unanswered goals after the break to secure all three points.

Laos stunned the Philippines in the seventh minute when captain Damoth Thongkhamsavath fired from distance. Philippine goalkeeper Quincy Kammeraad failed to stop the attempt, allowing the hosts to take an early lead.

The momentum shifted in the 14th minute when Laos defender Phetdavanh Somsanid was sent off after a VAR review confirmed a reckless challenge on Jarvey Gayoso.

Despite controlling possession for the rest of the opening half, the Philippines could not find a breakthrough until the second period.

John Lucero equalized just two minutes after the restart, finishing with his right foot following sustained pressure from the visitors.

The Filipinos completed the comeback in the 54th minute when Cole Mrowka's attempt resulted in an own goal by Laos defender Viengxay Sydavong.

Six minutes later, Gayoso converted from the penalty spot after another VAR review determined that Sangvilay Phoutthavong handled the ball inside the box.

Captain Daisuke Sato sealed the victory in the 88th minute, heading home the Philippines' fourth goal to cap a dominant second-half display.

The result gave Carles Cuadrat's squad its first three points of the tournament. The Philippines remained fourth in Group B, level with Myanmar on points but behind on goal difference, while Malaysia and Thailand were set to face off later in Bangkok.

The loss marked Laos' third straight defeat, eliminating its chances of reaching the next round.

The Philippines will return home for a crucial Group B matchup against Thailand on Tuesday at New Clark City Stadium in Tarlac, with kickoff scheduled for 9 p.m.