Thailand lose to Philippines but retain ASEAN Cup final place
Bjorn Martin Kristensen scored both Philippine goals, while Thailand will meet Indonesia in the final on Oct. 5.
Two goals from Bjorn Martin Kristensen handed Thailand a 1-2 loss against the Philippines in the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup on Oct. 2. The Group B encounter at Si Jalak Harupat in Bandung, Indonesia, ended Thailand's unbeaten run in the group but left their final berth intact.
Thailand finished top of the group and will contest the final against Indonesia on Oct. 5. Earlier victories against Pakistan and Vietnam had already guaranteed their progression. The Philippines were eliminated after Vietnam defeated Pakistan 4-2 in the group's other fixture.
With qualification assured, Thailand coach Anthony Hudson left Chanathip Songkrasin, Sarach Yooyen and Nicholas Mickelson among the substitutes. Jude Soonsup-Bell started up front with Supachok Sarachat and Anan Yodsangwal.
Rain delayed kickoff by an hour and left a slippery playing surface. Kristensen converted a delivery from Paul Tabinas in the third minute, marking Thailand's first concession of the tournament. Thailand had difficulty creating clear opportunities and remained behind at the interval.
Iklas Sanron brought Thailand level in the 55th minute following a pass by Seksan Ratree. Soonsup-Bell then failed to beat the goalkeeper in a one-on-one chance. Kristensen restored the Philippine lead in the 68th minute, finishing Andre Leipold's delivery. Hudson subsequently sent on Chanathip and other regular starters, but Thailand were unable to equalise again.
