After the 2nd match of Group B of the AFF Cup 2026, both Laos and the Philippines are in a very difficult situation when they have not won any points. Laos successively suffered heavy defeats 0-5 against Thailand and 0-4 against Malaysia, while the Philippines also caused great disappointment when they let Myanmar defeat 4-1 right at their home ground Rizal Memorial.
With the current point gap, this is considered a decisive match for the hopes of both teams to advance. A victory will help the winning team nurture hopes of competing for a ticket to the semi-finals, and defeat is almost synonymous with saying goodbye to the tournament early.
Despite just experiencing a stumble against Myanmar, the Philippines is still rated slightly higher thanks to possessing a force of equal quality with many players playing in Europe and foreign national championships.
Coach Carles Cuadrat's team still shows advantages in physique, fitness and ability to organize play, especially in situations of changing states and aerial combat. The Azkals also defeated Myanmar with a score of 5-1 in the FIFA Days in June, so the recent defeat is considered an unexpected stumble rather than a sign of professional decline.
Against a lower-rated opponent like Laos, the Philippines has a great opportunity to regain confidence and return to the race.
The match between Laos and the Philippines at ASEAN Cup 2026 takes place at 5:00 p.m. today (August 1) and this competition is broadcast live on FPT Play, VTV6, VTV7, VTVgo and TV360 platforms.
Link to watch FPT Play live:
https://fptplay.vn/su-kien/lao-philippines-6a687eeb53a57594c77f8227?event=event
