Philippines nips Brunei in Asean football

MANILA, Philippines - Matthew Custodio blasted a brace as the Philippines edged Brunei, 2-1, to seize the early lead in Group A of the Asean Football Federation Under-19 championship Saturday in Vientiane, Laos.

Blending well with Mark Anthony Winhoffer, Custodio scored a double within a 10-minute span in the first half as the Filipinos got the important cushion to post the opening-day victory.

The Pinoy booters later found themselves alone at the top of the table after host Laos and Cambodia battled to a scoreless draw in the second game to settle for one point apiece.

Phl XI braces for a tough duel with fancied Thailand on Wednesday.

After missing a good shot in the 17th, Custodio connected off a deep cross from Winhoffer in the 32nd to give Phl the headstart.

Receiving another fine delivery from the New Jersey-based Winhoffer in the 32nd, Custodio made the most of the opportunity and fired it home to make it 2-0.

Muhammad Abdul Mateen Said slipped through in the 55th as Brunei pulled one back but the Filipinos held on to secure the win.