The Philippines men's under-23 football team lost 5-1 to Uzbekistan in its opening match at the Asian Games, ABS-CBN reports. The result marked the country's first appearance in the men's football tournament in 52 years, according to the Philippine Football Federation.
The Philippine Football Federation said the team had prepared for its Asian Games return after more than five decades away from the competition. Manila Bulletin described Uzbekistan as a former champion of the tournament, while Spin.ph reported that the Philippines was making its first Asian Games football appearance since 1974.
ABS-CBN reported the match ended in a 5-1 defeat for the Philippines, with Uzbekistan taking control of the Group stage fixture. Inquirer.net also reported the loss, confirming the final scoreline.
The Philippines' return to the tournament was spoiled by the result, according to ABS-CBN. The team, competing as the Philippines Men's National Football Team U23, entered the competition aiming to make an impression after its long absence.
Spin.ph described the match as a blowout, while ABS-CBN framed the result as a disappointing start to the country's comeback campaign.
The Philippines will look to recover in its remaining group matches. The team's next fixture and the rest of its Asian Games schedule have yet to be confirmed in the reports reviewed.