PH struck bronze in King’s Cup after a clean slate against Tajikistan

The Philippine Men’s National Football Team earned a podium finish in the 2024 King’s Cup after defeating Tajikistan, 3-0, on Monday, October 14, at the Tinsulanonda Stadium in Songkhla, Thailand.

Gerrit Holtmann (47') placed the nation on the scoreboard after the first half ended without a goal. Jefferson Tabinas (58') immediately followed with a 54th minute header from a corner, and Zico Bailey's goal in the 62nd minute sealed the victory for the Nationals, making it a 3-to-love score.

The triumph marks the Philippines’ first podium place in the competition and their first win under Albert Capellas since he took over as head coach of the men’s national football team.

The PMNFT pledged to bounce back in the four-nation event after losing 3-1 to host Thailand. It was only against 2022 champion Tajikistan that they had to do so.

"As promised, we came back stronger!" the team said on Facebook.

Host Thailand won the tournament following a 2-1 victory over Syria in the final, while Tajikistan absorbed a fourth place finish.

The team will also be preparing for the third round of the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.