Philippines secured their semifinal berth by defeating Laos in 3-1 goals yesterday in the Bangabandhu Gold Cup International football tournament at the Sylhet District Stadium.

In a one-sided match, Philippines led the first half by 1-0 through Bedic converted a penalty at the late hour of the first half. Gayoso Javier Augustine and Bahadurang Misangh added one goal each in the second half of the match.

Phithack Kongmathilath reduced one goal for Laos from a penalty shot just two minutes before the match ends.

Yesterday’s victory of Philippines eliminates Laos from the group phase. Bangladesh also moved into the semifinal before their last group match to play.

Now, Bangladesh and Philippines will play their last match in a bid to be Group B champions. To clinch the top position of Group B, Bangladesh will have to beat Philippines.

However Philippines demonstrated a competitive performance through the entire 90 minutes. But Laos also made some good threats to Philippines.  Despite enjoying better possessions with playing pressing football, Philippines had to wait to take lead up to the first 43 minutes. Laos drew the first blood of the match going very closer to break the deadlock on the 40th minute.

After getting rid of some terrible pressures, Laos built up a sharp counter attack. They were about to take lead when Phouthone Innalay took a strong left footer. But his attempt was brilliantly saved by the goalkeeper.

The scenarios might be different during the second half. But some of the attempts from Laos were shattered.

Philippines took just three minutes to go ahead when the Laos defender Singsavang made a danger foul to stop Bedic. Then, he (Bedic) scored the goal on the 43rd minute from the penalty shot.  

Philippines did not look back to double the lead when Gayoso Javier Augustine’s closer range header went into the near post (2-0). Philippines earned another penalty and Bahadoran beat Laos keeper with a placing shot (3-0).

Laos had the consolation on the 88th minute. They scored the goal from a penalty. This time Philippines defender made a bad tackle to Phithack inside the area and Phithack scored the lone goal for Laos on (1-3).