PH salvages draw vs Tajikistan in Asian Cup qualifiers

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippine men’s national football team salvaged a 2-2 draw against Tajikistan in the third round of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers on Tuesday at the New Clark City Stadium in Tarlac.

Forward Bjorn Kristensen delivered a brace for the world No. 146 Philippines as the home team remained on top of Group A with four points and a +3 goal difference after two matches.

The 23-year-old Kristensen first scored at the 28th minute through a header then found the bottom of the net again at the 79th minute.

Meanwhile, Tajikistan’s goals were scored by Shervoni Mabatshoyev at the 30th minute and Parvizdzhon Umarbayev at the 42nd minute.

It was a highly physical contest between the two squads, which resulted to 13 yellow cards issued by the officials.

Tajikistan, ranked 104th in the world, stayed at second place in Group A with 4 points and a +1 goal difference.

Only the top team in each group after six matches will qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup happening in Saudi Arabia.

The Philippines will next battle Timor-Leste on the road in October.