The Philippines emerged as a surprise team in the 2024 AFF Cup. They are bathed in records in this tournament.
The Philippines appeared less than convincing in the first two matches of the 2024 AFF Cup. Even though they did not lose, the two draws put them in a tight spot because they had to face Vietnam and the Indonesian National Team in the last two matches.
However, in this situation, the Philippines was actually able to bring out its best abilities. The Philippines was able to hold Vietnam to a draw with a score of 2-2. Even Vietnam’s equalizing goal only came in second half injury time.
In the condition of having to win against hosts Indonesia to qualify for the 2024 AFF Cup semifinals, the Philippines was able to escape the pressure. The Philippines were able to return home with a 1-0 win over Indonesia and hold a ticket to the 2024 AFF Cup semifinals.
The Philippines’ success in beating Indonesia with a score of 1-0 is a good record for the Philippines. This is the Philippines’ first victory over Indonesia in the last 10 years.
The Philippines’ impressive record does not stop there. When they had the opportunity to host Thailand in the first leg of the 2024 AFF Cup semifinals, the Philippines was impressive again.
The Philippines were able to end the match with a narrow 2-1 win. For the Philippines, victory over Thailand is a valuable victory for them. This victory was the first victory in the last 52 years.
Thailand actually didn’t play badly. Even Patrik Gustavsson and his friends were superior in terms of ball control and attacks. However, of the 14 shot attempts, only four were on target.
Apart from this historic record, the Philippines also has the opportunity to set a new record. This record is the success of qualifying for the first time in the AFF Cup final.
So far, the Philippines’ best record is reaching the semifinals. This record was achieved by the Philippines in the 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2018 editions.
To qualify for the final round, the Philippines must play one more leg against Thailand. The Philippines will have to fight hard considering that the second leg of the 2024 AFF Cup semi-final will take place at Thailand’s headquarters.