Leddel lifts Philippines past Tajikistan for first win in AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers

The Philippine men’s under-23 football team kept its qualification hopes alive after Noah Leddel’s late heroics secured a 1-0 victory over host Tajikistan in the 2026 AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers at the Republican Center Stadium, September 7.

Leddel broke a potential stalemate after scoring a goal in the 70th minute from captain Sandro Reyes’ corner kick, giving the Philippines their first and bounce back win in Group K.

The Tajiks dominated possession in the first half but failed to capitalize, sending the match into halftime at 0-0.

But the 22-year old center-back Leddel delivered the decisive strike that stunned the home crowd.

Before the Filipinos’ triumph, Syria extended its winning streak to 2-0 with a stunning 4-2 comeback, fueled by late goals from Mahmoud Alaswad and Mahmoud Nayef in the final nine minutes.

With the win, the Syrians tightened their grip on the top spot in Group K, bringing them closer to a berth in the final tournament.

Currently tied with Tajikistan for second in the group, the Philippines will also need favorable results from other groups to qualify. Only the group winners and the four best second-placers across 11 groups will progress to the main tournament in Saudi Arabia.

The Philippines now faces a must-win match against Nepal on September 9 at 9 PM (Philippine time). A lopsided victory is crucial to improve its goal difference and strengthen its chance of advancing.