PMNFT scores three-goal second half to beat Timor-Leste in AFC qualifiers

Down 0-1 at halftime, the Philippines Men’s National Football Team (PMNFT) opened their scoring floodgates in the second half to defeat Timor-Leste, 3-1, at the New Clark City Stadium on Oct. 15.

Jefferson Tabinas, Bjørn Kristensen, and Jarvey Gayoso each found the back of the net as the Philippines regained footing as the top-seeded team in Group A with a +8 goal difference, edging Tajikistan, who tallied a 3-0 win over Maldives to keep their Asian Cup qualification hopes alive.

After a seesaw of close attempts to score in the first frame, Joao Rangel curved the ball past the Philippine goalkeeper to net Lafaek’s opener at the 45+1 mark heading into the break.

Unwilling to bow on home soil, defender Tabinas converted a corner kick early in the second half to equalize.

Kristensen, heavily marked after his four-goal performance in their previous meeting, restored the lead in the 70th minute, slotting home a go-ahead goal off a pinpoint pass from Jesper Nyholm.

Further widening the gap, Gayoso provided insurance in stoppage time, pouncing on a loose ball inside the box at the 90+1 minute mark to seal a dominant win for the Philippines.

The PMNFT will aim to extend their run and solidify their hold atop the group when they face the winless Maldives on Nov. 18.