PMNFT Delivers Attacking Masterclass In Tri-Nation Friendlies Opener

The Philippine Men’s National Football Team returned to Rizal Memorial Stadium with a dominant 5-1 victory over Guam to kick off the Tri-Nation Friendlies.

The Philippine Men’s National Football Team marked its return to Rizal Memorial Stadium in style, defeating Guam 5-1 in the opening match of the Tri-Nation Friendlies in front of 2,243 supporters on Wednesday night.

It was the national team’s first match at the historic venue since December 2024 and the home crowd was treated to an attacking display that featured goals from debutant Cole Mrowka, Jarvey Gayoso, and Santi Rublico, and a brace from Andre Leipold.

Attacking Masterclass

The opening minutes were not entirely comfortable for the Philippines, with a few careless giveaways allowing Guam to settle into the match. However, once the hosts found their rhythm, they quickly took control.

The breakthrough came in under ten minutes as debutant Cole Mrowka announced himself in dream fashion. Winning the ball in a battle for possession, the nationals created an opportunity that eventually led to Mrowka finding the back of the net to give the hosts an early lead.

“It’s just amazing, obviously in front of the fans,” Mrowka said after the match. “In five minutes, you can’t ask for a better start. It gives me confidence throughout the rest of the game.”

The PMNFT continued to threaten throughout the first half. Mrowka nearly grabbed a second goal while several dangerous attacks forced Guam onto the back foot. The pressure eventually paid off again in the 18th minute when a dangerous delivery from Daisuke Sato found Jarvey Gayoso, who doubled the advantage.

By that point, the Philippines had firmly taken control of possession and territory. Multiple chances followed before Santi Rublico scored his maiden goal just before halftime, finishing off a perfectly weighted through ball in the 44th minute.

Guam’s struggles continued after the break, including an injury that required a player to be stretchered off shortly after halftime. While the visitors managed to pull one back in the 59th minute following a costly turnover from the Philippines, any hopes of a comeback were quickly erased.

A brilliant run from Gayoso set up Leipold for the Philippines’ fourth goal in the 63rd minute before the forward completed his brace on a late counterattack to seal the 5-1 victory.

Integrating New Faces

The victory also provided an opportunity for some debutants to gain valuable experience in the national team setup.

Mrowka’s debut goal highlighted the impact of the new additions, while Jaime Rosquillo provided stability at the back. Kenji Nishioka also made his first appearance as a substitute and impressed with his work rate and aggressive challenges.

For Mrowka, finally representing the Philippines was a moment years in the making.

“It took a while, a few years, but finally being able to represent the country and make my family proud, make the people of this country proud, and do the best I can on the pitch,” he said.

Asked about helping new players adapt to the squad, Gayoso emphasized the importance of matches like these.

“Having games like this for them to be able to adjust to play,” Gayoso said. “This was one of the ways that we could integrate a lot of guys, and for those who have been part of the team, being able to adjust to the new faces.”

The performance suggested the process is already moving in the right direction as the PMNFT continues building towards future competitions.

Images courtesy of the PFF.