The Philippines strengthened their grip on Group A in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers with a hard-fought 3-1 comeback victory over Timor-Leste in Manila on Tuesday. The result leaves the Azkals leading the standings on goal difference over Tajikistan with two rounds remaining, while ending Timor-Leste’s hopes of reaching the continental finals in Saudi Arabia.
Timor-Leste stunned the home crowd just before halftime when João Rangel capitalised on a defensive lapse to fire his side ahead in stoppage time. The goal briefly raised hopes of an upset, but the Philippines responded with authority after the break. Defender Jefferson Tabinas restored parity shortly after the restart with a powerful header, setting the tone for a dominant second half.
Bjørn Kristensen then put the hosts in front with a composed finish midway through the half before forward Jarvey Gayoso sealed the win late on, converting from close range to make it 3-1. The victory ensured that the Philippines remained top of their group with 10 points from four matches, ahead of Tajikistan on goal difference.
Only the group winners will qualify directly for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, heightening the stakes for the remaining fixtures. Head coach Tom Saintfiet praised his team’s resilience, noting that their response after falling behind showed “character and belief” as they continue their push for a second Asian Cup appearance after debuting in 2019.
Elsewhere in Tuesday’s qualifiers, Singapore defeated India 2-1 in Goa thanks to a brace from Song Ui-young, drawing level with Hong Kong, China on eight points in Group C. Thailand cruised to a 6-1 victory over Chinese Taipei in Group D, with Teerasak Poeiphimai netting a hat-trick for Masatada Ishii’s side.
In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia made it four consecutive wins in Group F with a 5-1 comeback triumph against Laos, led by Romel Morales’ brace, while Vietnam edged Nepal 1-0 to stay within three points. Syria maintained control of Group E with a 3-0 win over Myanmar in Yangon, and Yemen crushed Brunei 9-0 to secure top spot in Group B.
For the Philippines, however, the night belonged to their spirited fightback in front of a raucous home crowd—a performance that keeps their Asian Cup dream firmly alive heading into the decisive final rounds.
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