Anousa’s late goals seals victory for Laos

Laos have put themselves in the contention to qualify for the semi-finals of the ASEAN Boy’s U17 football championships.

After a scoreless draw against Myanmar in their opening match, Laos edged out the Philippines 4-3 in their second Group C match at the Gelora Joko Samudro in Gresik, Indonesia.

A late goal from Anousa Silipanya settled the intriguing match between the two sides.

To make it past the group stages Laos will now need to get past favourites Thailand in their final group match.

Laos, a three-time runners-up in the series, have not gone past the group stages since fourth place finish in 2015.

It took the Laotians just one minute to find the net through Phoutphatai Chanthalangsy.

The early goal jolted the Filipinos, who came back strongly not only to equalize but also take the lead in the first half.

Joshua Moleje struck the equaliser in the 17^th minute before they took the lead through Aaron Long in the 45^th minute.

Laos replied early into the second half, with Anousith Phadit restoring parity in the 47^th minute. Anousith found the net again in the 56^th minute to put Laosback ahead at 3-2.

But, Laos conceded a penalty in the 82^nd minute that was converted by Aaron. Just as the match seemed to be heading for a draw, Anousa notched up the winner in the 89^th minute for Laos.