The Philippine national men’s football team fell short against Vietnam, 3-2, in the second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers on Thursday in Vietnam.
After a goalless draw in the first half, the Philippines had a glimmer of hope as Patrick Reichelt made the first goal at the 62nd minute.
However, Vietnam answered with its own just three minutes after to even the match. Ten minutes after, Vietnam doubled its lead. Both goals came from Nguyen Tien Linh.
The nationals almost salvaged the match with a goal from Kevin Ingreso at the 89th minute, but a goal from a rebound in extra time by Pham Tuan Hai sealed the win for Vietnam.
With the loss, the Philippines will not finish in the top two spots of Group F as it currently has one draw and four losses already. The nationals will also proceed to the third round of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.
Iraq is already assured of the top spot from Group F, allowing them to advance to the next round of the World Cup qualifiers.
The Philippines will also still play Indonesia in Jakarta on Tuesday to wrap up the its campaign in the World Cup qualifiers.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
