Philippines reach historic Cup semi

The Philippines have created some national football history, after reaching the AFC Challenge Cup semi-finals for the first time.

Two goals from Philip Younghusband and Angel Guirado in a win over the 2006 champions Tajikistan was enough for them to celebrate their biggest accomplishment yet.

National manager Michael Weiss was happy with the team performance and claimed that the Philippines have reached a higher level in Asian football.

“This is a historic day. We have actually been making history throughout the tournament but that is not comparable to today,” Weiss told the-afc.com.

“We have entered a higher level. Our opponents are much stronger than anyone we play in the region. This has been based on hard work and commitment.”

Team manager Dan Palami was stoked at the nation’s remarkable achievement.

“It’s unbelievable,” he said.

The Philippines are scheduled to face Central Asian nation Turkmenistan at Dasarath Rangasala Stadium, Nepal on Friday.