Bjorn Kristensen’s steady performance helped the Philippine National Men’s Football Team secure a 1-1 draw against Myanmar in their opening match of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024 on Thursday evening at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium in Manila.
Kristensen, a Filipino-Norwegian footballer, converted a crucial penalty kick in the 71st minute, slotting the ball past Myanmar goalkeeper Zin Nyi Nyi Aung to equalize the score.
This goal energized the home crowd of 1,589 fans and pushed the Philippines to third place in Group A, behind leaders Vietnam and Indonesia.
The Philippines had earlier struggled to find the back of the net despite four attempts in the first half. Myanmar had taken the lead in the 26th minute with a free kick from Mg Mg Lwin. The visitors nearly extended their lead in the 63rd minute, but Ye Yint Aung’s goal was disallowed due to an offside call.
“We created so many chances. I’m very satisfied with the start,” said Philippine head coach Albert Capellas. “We stuck to the game plan and kept pushing until the end.”
The Philippines had opportunities to secure a victory in the closing minutes, but shots by newcomer Javier Mariona in the 81st minute and Paul Tabinas in the 86th minute narrowly missed their mark.
The team will aim for its first win against Laos this Sunday in Vientiane, while Myanmar is set to face Laos at home on Wednesday.
