Philippines beat Cambodia 2-1 in U17 Asian Cup qualifying opener
Debutant Kai Muller supplied both goals, with Indonesia next for the Philippine side in Yangon on November 11.
The Philippines began its Group A qualifying campaign for the 2027 AFC U17 Asian Cup with a 2-1 win against Cambodia at Star City Sports Club in Thanlyin, Myanmar. Kai Muller scored twice on his first appearance for the national team.
Muller, a Filipino-German forward with FC Nurnberg, broke the deadlock in the 39th minute with a left-footed shot from inside the penalty area. Cambodia drew level before half-time through Long Bich after winning possession with a high press.
After Cambodian substitute Chantha Seyha missed a header in the 58th minute, Muller confronted two defenders in the box and struck again with his left foot in the 69th minute.
Lucas Asher Alvarez halted a Seyha attack in the Philippine penalty area in the 83rd minute. Deep into stoppage time, goalkeeper Nicko Buan denied an attempt to score directly from a corner, as well as It Somaun's free kick from midfield.
The victory extended the Philippines' winning sequence against Cambodia in men's U17 football to three matches, stretching back to the 2025 qualifiers. Under coach Sergi Mulet, the team next plays Indonesia in Yangon on November 11.
