Sandro Reyes goal rescues draw for Philippines against host Laos

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine men’s football team’s hopes of going deep into the tournament just got slimmer after settling for another draw in the Asean Mitsubishi Electric Cup, this time against Laos, 1-1, on Sunday December 15, at the New Laos National Stadium in Vienttiane. 

The draw meant the Filipinos must win their remaining two matches in the group stage to advance to the semifinals.

Sandro Reyes netted the lone goal for the Philippines in the 77th minute, equalizing the match after Michael Baldisimo scored an own goal while trying to stop a free kick in the 34th minute to give the hosts the edge early. 

Alex Monis almost gave the Philippines the advantage off a Reyes pass, but his goal in the 81st minute was ruled offside. 

Similar to their tournament opener against Myanmar, the Filipinos had more shots on target, 5-2, but fell short of capitalizing on their opportunities. 

The Philippines also enjoyed 81% of ball possession in the match, albeit for naught. 

Indonesia and Vietnam hold the top two spots in Group B, while the Philippines remains winless with two points built on a 0-2-0 win-draw-loss card. 

Meanwhile, Laos improved to two points with a 0-2-1 record in the group standings. 

The Filipinos will be back in Manila to face off against tournament contender Vietnam at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on December 18 in a must-win match, before flying to the Manahan Stadium in Solo City to take on Indonesia on December 21. – Rappler.com