(CNN Philippines) — The Philippine national football teams notched opening day victories in the 2017 Southeast Asian Games on Tuesday evening in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The men’s team blanked Cambodia 2-0, while the women’s team pegged back host nation Malaysia, 2-1.
The men’s side scored their opening victory thanks to a pair of second half goals from FEU standout Reymart Cubon and JPV Marikina’s Kouichi Belgira.
Cubon flicked in his header from a Jarvey Gayoso corner kick in the 51st minute, while Belgira guaranteed the result with a free kick within the final ten minutes of the match at the Selayang Municipal Council Stadium.
After the game, men’s coach Marlon Maro said his wards were ready for Cambodia’s challenge.
“We prepared for this game,” Maro bared. “I’m just happy we are able to start our journey to the semifinals.”
The women’s team edged out a 2-1 result against Malaysia after goals from Patrice Impelido and Cam Rodriguez.
Impelido gave the Filipinas the 1-0 before the halftime break, but Malaysia’s Dandree Rofinus leveled the scores in the 51st minute.
However, it was the Philippines who would come out on top after Rodriguez nicked what turned out to be the game winner at the 73rd minute mark.
Women’s team coach Let Dimzon was happy with side’s performance against the home nation.
“It was good to pick up the three points against the very difficult hosts,” Dimzon said.
The Philippine men’s team will face-off against Indonesia at the Shah Alam Stadium, while the Filipinas matchup against Vietnam takes place at the UM Arena Stadium on Thursday evening.
