Philippines vs Timor Leste in the AFF U23 Championship. ASEAN FOOTBALL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippines forced a 2-2 draw against Timor Leste in Group A at the start of the AFF U23 Championship at Morodok Techo Stadium in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Ivan Ouano just wouldn’t let the Philippines lose as he provided the answer each time Timor Leste pulled ahead.
The result pleased national team coach Stewart Hall, who lauded his players’ resolve.
“We showed great character to come back both times to get the draw,” said Hall. “It’s a new and young squad, but I’m pleased with their performance.”
“We know the quality of Timor Leste as they have been together for three months as compared to the three weeks that we had.”
The Filipinos played catchup early after Mouzinho Barreto de Lima scored on a penalty for the Timor Leste in the sixth minute.
Ouano equalized just before the break and again leveled the count in the 62nd minute not long after Jaimito Soares had put Timor Leste ahead.
The Philippines takes on Cambodia, which clobbered Brunei in its opening match, on Thursday.
“Timor Leste gave us some problems tonight and Cambodia will give us different problems in our next game,” Hall said.