Philippines defeated Thailand after 52 years of waiting
Playing at home at Rizal Memorial Stadium, the Philippines team started the match with enthusiasm, unexpectedly pushing up their attack formation. In the 21st minute, star Sandro Reyes scored a beautiful goal, helping the Philippines lead Thailand 1-0. Although the Thai team equalized 1-1 at the end of the first half and dominated the majority of the second half, in the 90+5 minute, center-back Kike Linares seized the opportunity, sealing an emotional 2-1 victory for the Philippines.
After more than 52 years, the Philippines defeated Thailand in an official match (in June 1972, the Philippines beat Thailand 1-0). Therefore, this victory greatly increased the confidence of the Philippine team. Coach Albert Capellas (Spanish) was excited: “I am extremely proud of this result. At the same time, I also feel happy that many fans came to the stadium to cheer for the team. I am very happy for the players because they did not give up”.
The 57-year-old coach continued to analyze: “The Philippines had an impressive first half against a strong opponent like Thailand and I am proud of the performance of the whole team. In the second half, the Philippines faced more difficulties when the opponent created many dangerous opportunities. However, we still fought to the end, always maintaining the spirit of solidarity to seek victory. No one gave up and the players showed strong belief, fighting with all their might for the country. I believe that this dramatic victory is a worthy reward for the whole team.”
Coach Albert Capellas is proud of the Philippines team's victory
The return leg is the real "battle"
After the surprise in the first leg, the Philippines team is expected to face many difficulties when visiting Thailand's Rajamangala Stadium in the second leg (December 30). Coach Albert Capellas assessed that this is the real "battle" for the Philippines team and he and his students must try more than 100% of their ability.
“I would like to extend my deepest thanks to the team members and staff. Their contributions were indispensable to this success, and I truly appreciate them all. The 2-1 win in the first leg was just the beginning. In three days, the return leg between the two teams will be the real battle. The Philippines must be strong and work hard to improve further to be able to think about the final,” concluded coach Albert Capellas.
Coach Albert Capellas is cautious because he and his players still have the second leg ahead.
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Source: https://thanhnien.vn/giup-philippines-danh-bai-doi-thai-lan-sau-52-nam-hlv-albert-capellas-tran-luot-ve-se-la-tran-chien-that-su-185241228005322596.htm
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