Vincent Kierk Tugnao

Substitute Dov Carino scored a late-game header as the Philippine Men’s Football Under-22 team survived the brink of elimination against home team Cambodia, 1-1, Tuesday night at Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh.

Photo Courtesy of Cambodia 2023

Carino grabbed his chance to power the Young Azkals by converting a much-needed goal from Harry Nunez’s assist, enough to silence the cheering Cambodian crowd.

This nerve wrecking equalizer gave some hope for the Philippine team to clinch their first ever SEA Games medal in the men's football event.

Prior to this match, the Azkals U22 failed to secure an opener against Indonesia resulting in a 0-3 loss.

Tension started to rise right at the start of the match, with Azkals defender Santiago Rublico awarded a yellow card in the 18th minute.

Ky Rina netted in the first goal after 26 minutes to put Cambodia’s campaign alive, but the Azkals team did not falter from their rival's shocker.

The table turned when Azkals midfielder Carino tied the game during the 93rd minute of action, earning his first goal in the competition.

The squad will be facing lower ranked Timor-Leste on Thursday, May 4, still at the Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh.


Edited by Diana Mae Salonoy