After 68 years, Philippines win first Asian Games match in men's football

Dubai witnessed a historic moment in Asian Games 2026 football as the Philippines secured their first victory in the men's category in 68 years. In a thrilling final Group C match against Kuwait, the Philippines achieved a 2-1 win, clinched by a crucial penalty kick in stoppage time. Andres Aldeguer struck the decisive penalty, converting it with precision in the final moments of the game.

The Asian Games football tournament comprises U-23 teams, and the Philippines was led by coach Garreth McPherson. The team had struggled throughout the tournament, suffering a heavy 5-1 loss to Group C opponents Vietnam and a draw with Vietnam in their second match. However, with no chance of advancing to the knockout stage, the Philippines aimed to end the tournament on a positive note.

Santi Rublico gave the Philippines an early lead in the 19th minute, but Kuwait equalized through Scott Woods' own goal. The turning point came deep into stoppage time when Jared Pena was fouled inside the penalty box by Salem Almehtab, resulting in a penalty kick. Aldeguer converted the penalty, sealing the victory for the Philippines.

This win marked the Philippines' first win in Asian Games men's football since the 1958 Tokyo edition, when they defeated Japan 1-0, with George Aldeguer scoring. Notably, Andres Aldeguer's father, Dino Aldeguer, revealed that George Aldeguer and his grandfather were cousins. While the men's team waited 68 years for this win, the women's national side reached the quarterfinals in the 2022 Asian Games, securing two group stage victories.

The Philippines finished third in Group C with three points from one win and two losses, missing out on the knockout stage. Kuwait's U-23 side remained winless, while the senior Kuwaiti side will look to start their Arabian Gulf Cup campaign against Saudi Arabia on September 23.