GMA News
PH beats Tajikistan, Nepal, but misses AFC U23 Asian Cup
The Philippine Nationals concluded their AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers with a 4-0 victory over Nepal, marking their second win of the campaign.
Otu Banatao scored the opening goal in the 33rd minute, followed by Javier Mariano's penalty in the 39th minute, giving the Philippines a 2-0 halftime lead.
In the second half, Dov Cariño added a goal in the 81st minute and captain Sandro Reyes sealed the 4-0 win with a free kick in the 85th minute.
The Philippines also defeated Tajikistan 1-0 with a Noah Leddel goal in the 71st minute.
Despite finishing with two wins and one loss, the Philippines did not qualify for the U23 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, as only group winners and the four best second-placed teams advanced.
The team finished seventh among the second-placed teams.
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The Philippine Men's Under-23 National Football Team achieved a 1-0 victory against host Tajikistan in the 2026 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.
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