Azkals fall short to Vietnam in front of 10k-strong crowd in World Cup qualifiers

In front of a crowd of 10,378 in the historic Rizal Memorial Stadium, the Philippine Azkals fell short to Vietnam, 2-0, in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers on Thursday.

Vietnam had the early lead after a goal by Nguyen Van Toan in the 16th minute mark which was held until halftime, 1-0.

Despite many chances the Philippines had in the second half, such as Santi Rublico's missed opportunity at around the 78th minute, a goal by Nguyen Dinh Bac in extra time sealed the deal for Vietnam.

The last time the Philippines faced Vietnam was in a friendly match back in December 2022 where the Azkals fell, 1-0.

The Philippines will next face Indonesia on the 21st.

Only the top two teams of Group F, which also has Iraq, will advance to the third round of the World Cup qualifiers and automatically book slots in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News