Bekasi: Javier Mariona converted a first-half penalty and Noti Nuñez slotted in a late effort as the Philippines downed 10-man Brunei 2-0 on Monday to boost their hopes of reaching the semi-finals of the ASEAN U-23 Mandiri Cup™ 2025.
Garrath McPherson’s side completely dominated the game at Patriot Candrabhaga Stadium and Mariona put them ahead after 20 minutes before setting up Nuñez five minutes from time to seal the victory.
Brunei defender Azrin Danial was sent off 10 minutes into the second half but goalkeeper Hisyam Norihwan made several big saves to keep the score respectable.
With the win, the Philippines finished second in Group A with six points, one behind group winners Indonesia, who drew 0-0 with Malaysia in the night’s other game.
The Philippines could advance to the semi-finals as the best group runners-up if Cambodia fail to beat defending champions Vietnam in Group B and Myanmar are unable to win against Thailand in Group C on Tuesday.
The Philippines squandered a pair of great opportunities in the first 10 minutes as Andres Aldeguer ballooned his effort over the crossbar from five yards out and Jaime Rosquillo headed John Lucero's corner against Hisyam’s right leg from point-blank range.
But their dominance was rewarded in the 20th minute when Wafiq Danish brought down Jax Peña just inside the Brunei box and Mariona stepped up to send his spot kick into the bottom left corner.
Brunei were out-shot 8-0 in the first half but Hisyam kept his side in the game, pulling off fine saves to keep out a neat flick by Peña in the 27th minute and Uriel Dalapo’s low drive three minutes before half-time.
Otu Bisong Banatao came on at half-time to replace Aldeguer and the Philippines’ two-goal hero in their opening win against Malaysia had a chance to add to his tally when the Philippines were awarded a second penalty after Azrin Danial handled Dalapo’s goal-bound shot in the 55th minute.
The defender was sent off but Banatao wasted the chance to extend his side’s lead as his weak attempt was easily saved by Hisyam.
The 10 men of Brunei continued to battle but the Philippines finally got their second with five minutes left when Mariona centred for substitute Nuñez to slot the ball past Hisyam from close range.
Mandiri Player of the Match - Harry Nuñez (#16), Philippines
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