THE Philippine men’s U23 national football team closed its 2026 Asian Games campaign on a high note, defeating Kuwait, 2-1, for its first Asian Games victory since the 1958 Tokyo Games.
The Philippine Football Federation highlighted the milestone after the national squad finally snapped a long winless run in the continental competition.
Santiago Rublico put the Philippines ahead in the 19th minute, giving the team an early advantage.
Kuwait eventually leveled the match after Philippines’ Scott Woods scored an own goal, bringing the game back to level terms.
The Philippines regained the lead through Andres Aldeguer, who converted a penalty to secure the historic victory.
The result gave the Philippine U23 team a 1-2 record in the tournament, following two earlier defeats.
Despite failing to advance to the knockout stage, the victory provided a memorable conclusion to the team’s Asian Games campaign.
The PFF congratulated the players and coaching staff for their efforts and sacrifices while representing the country in Japan.(Adrian Co)
