Pakistan secures first FIFA point with 2-2 draw against Philippines

Pakistan secured its first-ever point in a FIFA competition by staging a second-half comeback to draw 2-2 against the Philippines in the FIFA ASEAN Cup. After a heavy 4-0 loss to Thailand in their opening match, the 198th-ranked Pakistan side overcame a two-goal deficit to earn the result.

The Philippines took an early lead in the 24th minute through Sandro Reyes, followed by a Bjørn Kristensen penalty in the 32nd minute. Following a halftime delay caused by heavy rain and lightning, Pakistan returned with renewed momentum. Ali Akbar Khan scored his first international goal in the 47th minute, and Abdul Samad Arshad netted the equalizer in the 62nd minute.

The draw impacts both teams' standings in Group B. The Philippines now faces a difficult path toward the bronze medal, requiring a win in their final match against Thailand. Pakistan will conclude its campaign against Vietnam.