* Goals: Win Theingi Tun 19’ – Mathelus 71’

The Philippines' previous 1-0 loss to Australia U23 had significant consequences. Both teams had 3 points, trailing group leaders Myanmar by 3 points. This created a scenario where three teams could potentially end up with 6 points each, requiring tiebreakers based on head-to-head results.

In the final group match on 13/8, Australia U23 were expected to easily defeat Timor Leste, ultimately winning 9-0. This meant the Philippines needed to win by at least two goals against Myanmar to advance.

Philippines (blue) drew with Myanmar (red) 1-1 in the final Group B match of the 2025 ASEAN Cup at Lach Tray Stadium, Hai Phong, on 13/8/2025. Photo: MFF

Philippines (blue) drew with Myanmar (red) 1-1 in the final Group B match of the 2025 ASEAN Cup at Lach Tray Stadium, Hai Phong, on 13/8/2025. Photo: MFF

Myanmar's advantageous position allowed them to employ a defensive counter-attacking strategy. However, coach Tetsuro Uki opted for an open game, which paid off in the 33rd minute. Win Theingi Tun was fouled in the penalty box by goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel after beating the offside trap to receive a through-ball from Khin Mo Mo Tun.

The Myanmar captain converted the penalty herself, taking the lead in the tournament's scoring charts with 5 goals, one ahead of Thailand's Janista Jinantuya.

Myanmar nearly doubled their lead in first-half stoppage time. Again, Mo Tun provided the assist, this time to Yu Per Khine, whose shot was saved by McDaniel in a one-on-one situation. The Philippines immediately responded with a chance for Chandler McDaniel, but her shot from the edge of the box and the follow-up were both brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Myo Mya Mya Nyein.

The Philippines finally equalized in the 71st minute. Adelaide Wyrzynski delivered a cross from the right wing to Nina Mathelus, who finished into the Myanmar net.

Myanmar players celebrate Win Theingi Tun's opening goal from the penalty spot (second from left). Photo: MFF

Myanmar players celebrate Win Theingi Tun's opening goal from the penalty spot (second from left). Photo: MFF

At this point, the Philippines needed just one more goal to shift the elimination burden onto Myanmar. This was because the two teams, along with Australia U23, had identical head-to-head records (points, goal difference, goals scored), and the overall goal difference against all teams, including Timor Leste, would determine the final standings. Myanmar had only beaten Timor Leste 3-0, while the Philippines won 7-0 and Australia U23 won 9-0.

However, Myanmar's solid defense frustrated the reigning champions. They could have even won 2-1, but McDaniel made a crucial save from Yoon Wadi Hlaing's close-range shot in stoppage time.

The 1-1 draw secured Myanmar's top spot in group b, alongside Australia U23. In the semi-finals on 16/8, Myanmar will face Thailand, while Australia will play hosts Vietnam. Both matches will take place at Lach Tray Stadium, Hai Phong.

Starting lineups

Philippines: Olivia McDaniel, Azumi Oka, Isabella Alamo, Hali Long, Aaliyah Schinaman, Charisa Lemoran, Janae Defazio, Quinley Quezada, Bella Pasion, Dionesa Tolentin, Chandler McDaniel.

Myanmar: Myo Mya Mya Nyein, Lin Lae Oo, Zune Yu Ya Oo, Phyu Phwe, May Thet Mon Myint, Yu Per Khaing, Naw Htet Htet Wai, Phyu Phyu Win, San Thaw Thaw, Win Theingi Tun, Khin Mo mo Tun.

Hieu Luong