Philippines stumbles in Hyundai Cup opener, falls to Myanmar

Shenel Sheina Castillo

The Philippine Men’s National Football team got off to a rough start in the 2026 ASEAN Championship (Hyundai Cup) after falling to Myanmar, 1–4, at the New Clark City Stadium, July 28. 

Backed by the home crowd, the Philippines entered the field determined to secure a strong start despite the rain-soaked conditions at kickoff.

Myanmar quickly disrupted those plans, the Philippines fell behind in the opening minutes after Kyaw Min Oo rose above the defense and headed in a corner kick for an early 1–0 advantage.

Quincy Kammeraad delivered well-timed saves to keep the Philippines within striking distance, but the team struggled to settle into its rhythm as Myanmar stretched its lead before half time.

At the other end, Javier Mariona, Sandro Reyes bounced back and took control, with Jarvey Gayoso ending the ball into the left corner to trim Myanmar’s lead to 2–1.

The comeback push lost steam as Myanmar found another goal to widen the gap, putting the Philippines’ in a difficult position entering the final stretch. 

Despite the Philippines’ relentless efforts to mount a late comeback, Myanmar remained solid and saw out the match in the closing minutes to secure a commanding victory.

“We have to be positive. We know that it’s only the first game and there are nine more points to be played… So now, if we go and we win in Laos, we are going to have more points, we are going to have three points. So this is the message, to be competitive, to keep learning,” said coach Carles Cuadrat.

With its opening loss, the Philippines aims to return stronger in its next match, hoping to show greater defense and better control in midfield in the final third to revive its Hyundai Cup campaign.

With reports from ABS-CBN